Mike Dodds signs former Sunderland player as new announcement made
Mike Dodds may have left Sunderland, but that has not stopped him from utilising that connection.
Dodds was assistant manager to Regis Le Bris before departing to become Wycombe Wanderers’ boss in early February.
The 39-year-old guided the Chairboys to the League One play-offs, but lost in the semi-finals to eventual winners Charlton Athletic.
As he strives to build a squad capable of promotion next season, he has signed a former Black Cat to aid his cause.
Dodds reunites with former Sunderland academy product
When Dodds left Sunderland, they suffered a dip in form, and many referenced his departure as a key reason.
His move to Buckinghamshire represented his first foray into management after various coaching roles with the Wearsiders and Birmingham City.
Dodds’ ability to nurture young players is a strength, and he played a role in bringing Jobe Bellingham to the Stadium of Light.
Now the manager has signed former Sunderland academy player Dan Casey after he left Scottish Premiership side Motherwell.
| Dan Casey’s 2024/25 Scottish Premiership statistics | Total |
| Appearances | 33 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Touches | 56.4 |
| Clean sheets | 6 |
| Clearances | 7 |
The Chairboys announced the signing on their Instagram page (15 June), making him their second signing of the summer.
Although Casey never made a senior appearance for the Black Cats, he managed to forge a career after leaving the North East.
The 27-year-old enjoyed spells at Cork City, Bohemians, Sacramento, and Motherwell, where he made 85 appearances.
His move to Wycombe presents a return to English football, where he will be keen to prove himself in League One.
Dodds played a pivotal role in Black Cats reaching Premier League
Although Dodds endured a tricky spell as Sunderland caretaker manager, he played his role in the North East club reaching the big time.
His work as a youth coach aided the Wearsiders’ stars of the future, and then his move to the senior setup allowed those players to flourish.
Furthermore, his links with Birmingham played a role in Bellingham choosing Sunderland.
While he alone did not promote the Black Cats, he helped Le Bris enjoy a smooth transition into English football.
Now, his focus will firmly be on Wycombe, but he should be thanked for the incredible job he did on Wearside.