“Can they hold their nerve, because when its bad its bad” Former West Bromwich lashes OUT huge question tag to the Black Cats title race while fuming “Shameful” end of season prediction on where Sunderland might finish.
Former England manager Sam Allardyce has raised concerns about Sunderland’s resilience this season, asking, “can they hold their nerve?” The 70-year-old, who managed the Black Cats in 2015 and played for them in 1980, recently discussed Sunderland’s prospects with former defender Wes Brown.
Speaking on the *Footy Accumulators No Tippy Tappy Football* podcast, Allardyce encouraged head coach Regis Le Bris to “push” the board for more support, advising him not to “settle” despite Sunderland’s strong start to the season, which continued with a 0-0 draw against QPR on Saturday.
When asked about Sunderland’s promotion chances, Allardyce said, “They’ve kept it up so far, but will they hold their nerve? There’s always that period around Christmas with injuries, and you start wondering if the squad depth is enough. That’s what the coach should be planning for.”
He continued, “If you’re in this position, you have to look ahead to January and push the board for reinforcements. The board might think things are fine, but as a coach, you’ve got to push for what you need to sustain this.”
Brown added, “It’s like they’ve embraced the challenge. The manager has trusted the players, and they’re delivering. They’re enjoying themselves, winning big games. It’s tough up there, but when it’s good, the support is behind you. In past seasons, they’ve sometimes faded in the second half, so hopefully, they’re ready to push through now.”
Allardyce wrapped up by backing Le Bris: “I don’t think he’s hugely experienced here, but if you’re in this position, you have to be ready for the Christmas period. Sustaining this success for Sunderland depends on his determination, even if the board isn’t eager to give him what he wants. If they do, Sunderland could reach the Premier League, the ‘richest game in the world.’
“Promotion could mean hundreds of millions for Sunderland, even with parachute payments if they go down. If you’re at the top by Christmas, you want to protect that position. I hope he does it.”