UNDERRATED: He came as Free agent and YET outdid £15m Flop and never got the credit from the Black Cats…. Best free agent the struck by the Black Cats, fans never imagined this Player.
Even the most optimistic Sunderland fan likely didn’t anticipate such a strong start to the season, with the Black Cats winning both of their opening Championship games in style. Their recent 4-0 triumph over Sheffield Wednesday at the Stadium of Light was particularly impressive, with Eliezer Mayenda finally making his mark, scoring twice and earning his first senior goals for the club.
Beyond Mayenda’s breakthrough, Jobe Bellingham showcased his growing maturity in the commanding win, as he continues to develop in his second full season with Sunderland. Dan Neil also stood out in midfield, solidifying his role as a key player under new manager Régis Le Bris.
**Dan Neil’s Journey at Sunderland**
This summer, there were fears that the homegrown talent might leave Sunderland, especially given the uncertainty during the drawn-out off-season when the club was without a manager. However, with Le Bris now at the helm, there’s a renewed sense of optimism, following last season’s disappointing 16th-place finish.
Sunderland will be relieved that their 22-year-old star has stayed with the club. Le Bris has even entrusted Neil with the captain’s armband in their first two Championship games, a logical choice given Neil’s rise through the ranks from the youth academy to becoming a reliable first-team presence with 151 senior appearances.
Though Neil didn’t add to his career tally of 10 goals and 17 assists against Sheffield Wednesday, his efforts in the match were undeniable. With emerging talents like Bellingham and the raw potential of Chris Rigg further up the pitch, Sunderland easily dispatched their South Yorkshire opponents. Neil’s leadership and influence will be crucial in Sunderland’s promotion push this season.
With the addition of Alan Browne to the squad, Sunderland now has a strong midfield lineup. This depth could lead to the club considering cashing in on Pierre Ekwah, who has reportedly attracted a £4.3 million bid from Udinese. Given Neil’s growing importance and higher value to the team, Sunderland might decide the time is right to sell.
**Neil’s Transfer Value in 2024**
According to Football Transfers, Neil is currently valued at £5.9 million, significantly higher than the reported bid for Ekwah. As a homegrown talent who has spent his entire career at Sunderland, Neil’s departure would be a significant loss, but Sunderland’s midfield appears well-stocked with promising players like Rigg and Bellingham, who were instrumental in the win over Sheffield Wednesday.
Michael Graham, a football journalist, described Rigg as an “outrageous” talent after his standout performance, where he completed three key passes in his 90 minutes on the pitch. Rigg’s versatility, including his ability to play a more defensive role, might limit Ekwah’s chances of returning to the starting lineup.
Journalist Josh Bunting has previously praised Neil as a “creative spark,” and with the recent signing of Browne providing experience, Sunderland could feel confident in selling Ekwah, knowing they have a bright future in midfield. Ekwah’s inconsistent form last season might make him expendable as Le Bris looks to further shape his squad.