Sunderland news round-up: Ange Postecoglou revelation as Bertrand Traore concern emerges
Sunderland supporters will be thankful that the international break is almost over so that they can watch their stars in action.
A host of Sunderland have been on international duty across the globe, but there have been no reports of injuries yet.
Away from Wearside, there has been plenty of drama, with Ange Postecoglou appointed as Nottingham Forest manager.
Here, Mackem News rounds up the latest news surrounding Sunderland, with plenty of talking points.
Ange Postecoglou was once in the frame for Sunderland job
It has emerged that Postecoglou was once considered for the Sunderland job while Martin Bain was at the North East club as CEO.
This bombshell was dropped by former Black Cats striker Michael Bridges, who opened up on events that occurred on Wearside.
Bridges says that the Wearsiders considered appointing the Australian before he took over at Celtic.
- Postecoglou managed in Australia
- He was of interest to Sunderland while managing in Japan
- Took over as Celtic boss in 2021
According to Bridges, Bain called him asking for a reference on Postecoglou, and he gave him a glowing report.
However, he claims that Bain decided against appointing the 60-year-old because he wanted a big name for the fans.
Read more: How Omar Alderete fared for Paraguay ahead of Sunderland return
Kristjaan Speakman opens up on Jack Clarke departure
Speakman has spoken about Clarke’s departure from Sunderland while answering questions on transfers.
The winger is one of several star players to have departed the North East over the years, along with Ross Stewart, Jobe Bellingham, and Tommy Watson.
However, Speakman referenced how such sales have been pivotal to the Black Cats completing further transfers and building a squad.
While some have been critical of the Dane during his tenure as sporting director, it would be hard to argue against his decisions.
Was Bertrand Traore a panic buy from Ajax?
Traore was one of several deadline day arrivals, as well as Brian Brobbey and Lutsharel Geertruida.
Out of all the business completed by the Wearsiders, the signing of the winger has been met with the most mixed reviews.
Now, a Dutch journalist has inferred that Traore was a panic buy, given the North East club’s rush to sign a winger.
Sunderland were after another winger all summer after Armand Lauriente’s deal collapsed in the final stages.
Now, the Wearside faithful can look ahead to a trip to Crystal Palace in the Premier League this Saturday.
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