Dan Neil reflects on Sunderland ‘blessing’ after what happened
Sunderland captain Dan Neil has spoken about how last season’s disappointment can be spun into motivation as the Black Cats chase promotion at the third attempt.
The midfielder played a huge role for the club last season, albeit one that ended with Sunderland almost facing a relegation battle.
Regis Le Bris’ side have made a remarkable start to the current campaign, sitting top of the table after nine games and Neil has spoken about how the atmosphere has changed at the club in comparison to their previous campaign.
In an interview with the Telegraph (October 15), Neil said: “Look at the inside of this building, look at the style of play, look at recruitment and the commitment to bringing young players through.
“Each year there has been a general progression. Last year was a bit of a low, but I think it was a blessing in disguise.
“We did so well in our first year in the Championship, that brought people back to earth a little bit. I don’t think it was a horrendously bad thing for the players because it showed them what the lows feel like. Everyone can see this club has changed for the better. There is a unity of purpose here, from top to bottom.”
What has changed at Sunderland since last season?
The current season is Sunderland’s third in the Championship, the first of which ended with a play-off semi-final and one that has so far started with the Black Cats leading the division.
So to consider that a relegation battle was almost on the cards for the same side the season in between is quite astounding.
However, lots have changed. There is a real connection between the club and the fanbase currently which there wasn’t last season, as mentioned by Speakman in an interview with the Second Tier.
Not only that, but Sunderland have a real identity under Le Bris and one that certainly allows several players to operate at the highest level possible. That was lacking under the stewardship of Michael Beale and Mike Dodds last season where players often looked bemused at what they were being expected to do.
That identity will only continue to grow with each game and the recent appointment of assistant head coach Pedro Ribeiro will help accelerate that as the Black Cats push to achieve their ultimate goal of promotion.
In other Sunderland news, Sunderland co-owner Juan Sartori is facing allegations of fraud, negligence and conspiracy.
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