Dennis Cirkin names Sunderland teammate who goes under the radar at Stadium of Light
Dennis Cirkin has hailed Sunderland defender Luke O’Nien for his influence in his outstanding Championship campaign so far.
The left back has been enjoying life on Wearside and for the first time since joining the club, has managed to shine without any injury concerns.
O’Nien has been a popular figure throughout the years at Sunderland and Cirkin was keen to reiterate his importance behind the scenes.
In quotes reported by the Northern Echo (14 November), he said: “I have very good people around me. I just want to give a big shout-out to Luke, a really good man. It goes so under the radar how much of an effect he has on the team, on the individuals, on everyone around the club.
“He’s a big character in the dressing room helping everyone out.”
Dennis Cirkin is thriving this season at Sunderland
Cirkin has undoubtedly been a standout performer for the Black Cats, arguably having been their best player. However, with that comes inevitable transfer interest with Leeds recently linked with the full-back (Sunday Mirror, 10 November, pg 69).
His ability to contribute to both ends of the pitch has been crucial to Sunderland’s rise this campaign, leading them to the top of the Championship.
His goal against Coventry epitomised the threat he offers offensively as well as his defensive qualities, with the move starting from his interception just 20 yards from his own goal.
His only downfall during his time on Wearside has been his injury record. Cirkin featured just eight times in the league last season although it appears that he has put those injury woes behind him.
As with several other players, retaining his services could prove pivotal to the club’s ambitions of a Premier League return come the end of the campaign.
In other Sunderland news, Shrewsbury Town midfielder Carl Winchester has described it as a “total shock” when he made the move to Wearside in 2021.
For more Sunderland news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.