Sunderland has long been searching for a reliable, high-scoring striker to lead their attack, and recent transfers have been a mixed bag in their pursuit. Last season, their offensive struggles were apparent, with new recruits Mason Burstow and Nazariy Rusyn falling short of expectations. Rusyn, in particular, managed only two goals all season, leaving Sunderland lacking firepower in the Championship. However, the arrival of Wilson Isidor on loan from Zenit St. Petersburg seems to have revived hope. Under head coach Regis Le Bris, Isidor has been lighting up the Championship and could be the answer to Sunderland’s search for a dependable forward.
Sunderland’s patience in signing Isidor during the summer transfer window has proven worthwhile. After a drawn-out negotiation process, the Frenchman finally joined the squad in late August, and his impact has been immediate. In just ten Championship appearances, Isidor has scored four times, including an impressive first-time strike against Oxford United. While his form has been promising, there is concern about his future at Sunderland, as he is only on loan. If he doesn’t make his stay permanent, Sunderland could find themselves back to square one, missing the clinical finisher they’ve been searching for since Ross Stewart’s departure.
Ross Stewart’s exit left a significant gap in Sunderland’s attack. Known for his goal-scoring prowess, Stewart netted 40 goals in 80 appearances for Sunderland, including a memorable winner in the 2022 playoff final that secured their Championship promotion. Despite his success at Sunderland, injury issues plagued his career. After his transfer to Southampton for £8 million, Stewart’s injury woes only intensified, limiting him to just four league appearances last season without a single goal. Given his struggles, his value has dropped to an estimated £3.7 million, making Sunderland’s decision to sell him appear prudent in retrospect.
While Sunderland may not take pleasure in seeing their former talisman struggle, they’ll hope Isidor can fill Stewart’s shoes and help propel them back to the Premier League. The Black Cats’ ultimate goal remains promotion, and with Isidor leading the charge, there’s renewed optimism in their campaign.
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