In discussing recent comments made by the Sunderland manager concerning their striking options, it’s evident that the team’s season hasn’t been a complete disaster. However, leading up to their 3-1 victory over Norwich City at the Stadium of Light last weekend, Sunderland had faced three consecutive defeats. During those matches, they managed to score only one goal, which exposed a significant problem faced by Tony Mowbray’s team—namely, their limited striking choices.
Sunderland’s striking resources were indeed weakened after the departure of Ross Stewart to Southampton in the summer. Nevertheless, during the summer transfer window, the club made several signings to bolster their attacking lineup. These included Nazariy Rusyn, Eliezer Mayenda, and Luis Semedo on permanent deals, along with Mason Burstow on loan from Chelsea. However, based on Mowbray’s recent comments, it seems he isn’t particularly enthusiastic about these options at the moment.
In anticipation of Sunderland’s match against Norwich, Mowbray addressed the media, specifically discussing his strikers who have yet to score this season. He posed the question, “Are they ready?” about the quartet, emphasizing their youth and the work being put into their training. He pointed out that if they were consistently finding the back of the net during practice, he would include them in the starting lineup. Mowbray acknowledged that these young players come from different countries and are struggling to adapt to the intensity of the team’s style. He emphasized that they are in the process of learning their trade and concluded that if he believed they were prepared to contribute and score goals right now, he would field them.
While Sunderland hasn’t had significant problems with goal-scoring so far, the situation could become a serious concern as the season progresses. It’s clear that if Sunderland aims to reach the playoffs and match their achievements from the previous season, they need a reliable number nine who can consistently contribute with goals. This is reminiscent of a similar issue last season when Stewart was injured, but at that time, Amad Diallo was on loan and scoring effectively. Unfortunately, Sunderland currently lacks that luxury.
With a month or two remaining until the January transfer window opens, Mowbray still has time to work with his young forwards before making significant transfer decisions. However, if the situation remains unchanged by January, it’s likely that Sunderland will need to invest in an established striker to assist Mowbray’s cause, temporarily setting aside their recent strategy of signing young players for the future.
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