When the Championship returns to action this weekend, Sunderland will be trying to keep pace in the race for a play-off position.
The Black Cats had a rough patch a few weeks ago, but came into the international break having won two of their last three league games.
Many people expected Sunderland to slip away after losing a few key players in the summer, namely Amad Diallo to Manchester United and Ross Stewart to Southampton.
Tony Mowbray’s side, on the other hand, have been very steady, taking up 26 points in their 16 league games so far this season.
Mowbray will be concentrating on what Sunderland do in their next set of fixtures, but he will also be planning for January, as he will no doubt be eyeing numerous incomings.
However, with the club likely seeking new additions, it is possible that one or two players will go, in which case the Black Cats should be willing to accept offers for Bradley Dack in January.
Who is Bradley Dack?
The 29-year-old signed with the club as a free agent last summer after departing Blackburn Rovers following the end of his contract. Dack’s career has been relatively stable in terms of club movement. He began in Charlton Athletic’s academy before shifting to Gillingham in 2007.
After spending a few years in Gillingham’s academy, he transitioned to the first team in 2012. While there, he briefly played on loan at Braintree in 2013 but remained with Gillingham until 2017. His impressive performance at the club attracted Blackburn’s attention.
During his six-year tenure at Ewood Park, he appeared in 173 matches, scoring 57 goals, and contributing 28 assists. Yet, his time with Blackburn was marked by injury setbacks. Consequently, Blackburn chose not to renew his contract at the close of last season.
Consequently, Dack entered into a one-year contract with Sunderland, which includes an option for an additional year. However, given the current circumstances, Sunderland might consider entertaining offers in January before the season concludes.
Why should Sunderland welcome offers for Bradley Dack in January?
Since his arrival at Sunderland, Dack has appeared in just seven matches across all competitions due to persistent injury troubles. In the league, he featured six times, with four appearances in August and September, followed by a six-game absence caused by a thigh injury.
After his return against Stoke City, Dack has only managed two substitute appearances, accumulating a total of 58 minutes on the field. The 29-year-old’s struggle with fitness has not secured him a consistent starting spot in Mowbray’s lineup. While Sunderland initially saw value in his signing as a versatile squad member, the current situation suggests it might be prudent for them to reassess.
Dack’s performance statistics this season indicate a modest impact at the Stadium of Light, with an average of just one shot per game. He completes 0.2 dribbles and 1.3 key passes, earning an overall match rating of 6.86 on WhoScored.com in the Championship. However, it appears unlikely that he will significantly improve his contributions.
Considering Sunderland’s abundance of young talent, it would seem logical for the club to consider moving Dack on during the January transfer window rather than risk losing him on a free transfer in the summer. Potential suitors might include Championship clubs or top-tier League One teams. Even if Sunderland receives a nominal fee, it would be more advantageous than losing him without any compensation.
Given Dack’s desire for regular playtime when fit, a move away from Sunderland might be the best option for him personally. It doesn’t appear probable that he’ll secure a consistent place in the starting lineup, making a transfer seem more beneficial for his career.
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