**Letter 1**
Dear Roker Report,
I’d like to address our striker issue and propose a solution, including a specific player recommendation.
Our management should consider purchasing Simon Murray from Ross County. He has a proven track record of scoring goals, and we successfully acquired Ross Stewart from the same club. This move would be cost-effective and timely. We missed the opportunity with Lawrence Shankland, who has since excelled at Dundee United and Hearts. Let’s not repeat that mistake with Simon Murray.
Please forward this suggestion to Kristian Speakman.
Harish Shah
**Ed’s Note [Gav]:** Although I’m unfamiliar with Murray, a quick search shows he has had a decent season in Scotland. However, he’s 32 years old, and his overall scoring record isn’t particularly impressive. It seems unlikely that he would suddenly solve our problems. Imagining a 32-year-old Ross County striker leading our push for Premier League promotion is quite a stretch. While he’s had a good season, we should aim higher.
**Letter 2**
Dear Roker Report,
It’s apparent that no sensible person would want to take this managerial job. The club is controlled by an autocrat who, by not attending the fans’ meeting, has made it clear that the model is non-negotiable, and they will decide the coaching staff and player signings. The conditions are so restrictive that the position is untenable. It’s almost as if Kristian Speakman plans to appoint himself.
Jeff Storey
**Ed’s Note [Gav]:** Jeff, that’s quite dramatic! I don’t believe Sunderland is in such dire straits under dictatorial rule. Despite a bad season, the upcoming Head Coach appointment is crucial, and it’s essential they make the right choice, however long it takes. We should judge them based on this decision and the summer transfer window, rather than making assumptions now.
**Letter 3**
Dear Roker Report,
Three months is too long without a manager, and with Premier League clubs eyeing our top players, the prolonged appointment process increases the risk of losing them. We need to appoint someone within the next two weeks to stabilize the situation. Supporters have renewed their season tickets in good faith, trusting the management, and they deserve some positive news. Perhaps clubs should ensure the same manager remains in place from the start to the end of the season.
Peter Henshall
**Ed’s Note [Gav]:** As long as a manager is appointed by pre-season, we should be fine. Interest in our better players is inevitable, regardless of our managerial situation. Most of the squad is likely on holiday and not focused on football right now. The crucial point is to make the right choice, even if it takes a few more weeks.
**Letter 4**
Dear Roker Report,
Let’s be clear about the current regime running the club — their only goal seems to be exploiting the fans and eventually selling the club for a profit to enjoy their lives in France.
Tony Armstrong
**Ed’s Note [Gav]:** What evidence supports this claim? Some believe the significant investment in club facilities is a precursor to selling, but at least they are improving the club. Alternatively, Kyril might genuinely want to succeed as the club’s owner. Only time will tell. It’s easy to get carried away with negative speculations when there’s a lull in activity.