Sunderland ‘need to sign another left-back’ after worrying Cirkin development
Sunderland’s recent announcement on Dennis Cirkin has sparked concern on Wearside ahead of the summer transfer window.
Recruitment at the Stadium of Light this summer is going to play a deciding role as to whether Sunderland are able to break the trend of promoted sides dropping straight back into the Championship.
All six of the most recently promoted sides have succumbed to relegation, and that will be the fate that awaits Sunderland if they aren’t able to showcase their ambition this summer.
The Black Cats will undoubtedly be looking to bolster the majority of their squad as they prepare for life back in the Premier League, and after the recent announcement, it seems like the signing of a left-back may be high up on their list of priorities.
Cirkin announcement showcases Sunderland worry
Cirkin had a remarkable campaign in the Championship last time out, though his form did start to dwindle as the season went on.
As to the reason for that, it’s hard to pinpoint, though many will look back to the time that Cirkin picked up an injury and was forced to spend a few weeks on the sidelines.
| Sunderland | Games | Goals | Assists |
| Cirkin | 36 | 3 | 2 |
Unfortunately for him, that has been the biggest concern over him during his time on Wearside, with the defender recently having to withdraw from the England Under-21 side through injury, for the second time in a few months.
With Aji Alese and Niall Huggins also suffering from a cruel injury history, fans are adamant that the signing of a new left-back will be crucial this summer.
This is the reason why we need another LB brought in over the summer. I have nothing against him or Alese, but you are never going to get many games out of them before each injury.
— Gaz K (@gazk_mackem) May 31, 2025
Good call. He’s not been fully fit since November.
— LD (@LD5931895015311) May 30, 2025
Hopefully not another injury. Certainly a position we have to strengthen in the summer https://t.co/2jsYQQ63hs
— Allan Davis (@davis0688) May 30, 2025
Poor Dennis, can’t catch a break.#SAFC
— Call me Por. (thai) 🐈⬛ (@Iamjuppingpor) May 30, 2025
Speedy recovery https://t.co/5gBaOtVgwL
Again… https://t.co/JpQ622Nq36
— Cam (@_CRVisuals) May 30, 2025
Regis Le Bris must be backed this summer
Sunderland managed to find a way through all of their injury troubles in the Championship, though they will have to be far better organised when it comes to the Premier League.
Playing players out of position simply won’t work in the top flight, showcasing the need for the Black Cats to ensure they have sufficient squad depth.
Defensively, it is probably their weakest point in that regard, though reinforcements will certainly be needed all over the pitch.