Sunderland ‘can seal permanent Chris Mepham deal’ under one condition
Chris Mepham has enjoyed a successful loan spell with Sunderland so far this season.
Given the season that has unfolded on Wearside, several players have emerged with a remarkable amount of credit, and it has been no different for the Welshman.
Despite the occasional blip in form, Mepham has been outstanding for Sunderland, and has looked a level above most other defenders in the Championship throughout the campaign.
However, fans are reminded never to fall in love with a loan player, though the Mackems may be able to subdue any concerns of him returning to Bournemouth.
Regis Le Bris must deliver promotion this season
Very few would have anticipated Sunderland to be in the promotion picture after the nightmare Championship season that they endured last year, but they certainly are.
Heading into the final 10 games of the season, Sunderland still have every chance of achieving promotion, though it appears as though it’s going to have to come via the playoffs given the eight-point gap on the leading pack at the summit.
| Sunderland | Apperances | Goals | Duels won | Tackles won | Pass accuracy |
| Chris Mepham | 28 | 1 | 134 | 20 | 87.4% |
If that can be achieved, Sunderland will surely hold the upper hand when it comes to negotiating a permanent deal for Mepham, who, as it stands, is likely to return to Bournemouth until further notice.
The Welshman is out of contract at the end of the campaign, though the club hold the option to extend it for an additional year.
Of course, promotion will be the deciding factor in any potential deal, but it could also have a huge say as to whether Sunderland are able to retain their own key talent.
Sunderland must focus on promotion
While some focus will be on the summer window and the decisions that will need to be made throughout it, the majority has to be on the pitch for now.
Sunderland have a great opportunity to finally return to the Premier League, and they can’t afford to let anything distract them from that possibility.
Results on the pitch are all that matters for now, heading into another crucial encounter against Preston.