Gus Poyet Discusses Sunderland's Future, Maintains Contact with Owners

Former Sunderland manager Gus Poyet believes the club must retain key players Jack Clarke, Jobe Bellingham, and Anthony Patterson to compete in the Championship next season. These players have been central to Sunderland's setup this season, with Clarke leading the team in scoring and Bellingham and Patterson also impressing.

Poyet, who is currently the manager of the Greece national team, feels it is vital for Sunderland to hold onto their best talents to aid the club's progression. The players have long-term contracts, and Poyet believes the club is well-positioned to keep them, despite potential interest from other clubs.

However, Sunderland's turbulent season and managerial changes may hinder the club's chances of retaining these players. The club's next manager could be pivotal in convincing the trio to remain at the Stadium of Light.

Poyet, who had a successful spell as Sunderland manager from 2013 to 2015, says he is still in touch with the club's owners, Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and Juan Sartori. During his tenure, Poyet led Sunderland to three wins against rivals Newcastle United and the 2014 Capital One Cup final.

While Poyet has been linked with the Republic of Ireland job, he believes Sunderland is a good club with a big fan base. However, the team has faced challenges this season with changes in management. Poyet suggests the club needs stability and a clear vision to guide their young players and push for progress next season.

Sunderland sacked Mick Beale in February and placed Mike Dodds in charge on an interim basis until the end of the season. However, Dodds' tenure has not brought about a dramatic change in the club's fortunes, leaving them mid-table in the Championship.

Two names have been linked with the vacancy - Paul Heckingbottom, the former Sheffield United boss, and Danny Rohl, the Sheffield Wednesday manager. Poyet believes the club must ensure the new coach fits their philosophy, whether it's an experienced coach who can guide the young talent or a coach who has secured promotion before.

Poyet claims he is in touch with the Sunderland owners, as he knows them well, and believes the club has a lot of potential. However, no official appointment has been made yet, with names like Paul Heckingbottom, Danny Rohl, and Will Still mentioned as potential candidates.

Why this matters: Sunderland's managerial appointment and ability to retain key players will have a significant impact on the club's chances of mounting a promotion challenge in the Championship next season. Stability and a clear vision will be essential for the club's progress and development of their young talent.

Sunderland currently sits 13th in the Championship table and cannot afford to get their next head coach appointment wrong, as another short-term arrival would be a disaster. Poyet believes keeping hold of their top talent will be key to sustaining a promotion challenge next season. The club's owners will need to make a wise decision in selecting a manager who aligns with their long-term philosophy and can guide the team back to the Premier League.

Key Takeaways

• Gus Poyet urges Sunderland to retain key players Clarke, Bellingham, and Patterson.
• Sunderland's next manager will be crucial in convincing the trio to stay.
• Poyet is in touch with Sunderland's owners and believes the club has potential.
• Sunderland faces a crucial managerial appointment to mount a promotion challenge.
• Retaining top talent and stability are essential for Sunderland's progress next season.