Aji Alese

Sunderland Gain Key Fitness Edge Ahead of Millwall Showdown as Pundit Defends Marti Cifuentes

15/11/2024 Raymond 0

Millwall and QPR are using the international break to regroup and address the contrasting starts to their Championship campaigns. Millwall, just outside the playoff spots, aims to maintain their positive momentum, while QPR, struggling at the bottom, faces mounting pressure and scrutiny. With just one win this season, QPR’s manager Marti Cifuentes is under fire, though pundit Jobi McAnuff defends him, arguing that the club’s recruitment strategy has hindered his ability to succeed. Meanwhile, Sunderland has received a boost with the return of defender Aji Alese, raising hopes as they prepare to face Millwall after the break.

Regis Le Bris Hints at Nazariy Rusyn’s Exciting Future with Sunderland

27/09/2024 Raymond 0

Regis Le Bris remains uncertain about how the recent signing of Aaron Connolly will impact Nazariy Rusyn’s future at Sunderland but believes the Ukrainian forward can still contribute in the months ahead. With Ahmed Abdullahi out injured, Le Bris emphasized the need for three strikers in his squad, leading to the move for free agent Connolly. However, once Connolly is fit after the October international break, Rusyn may find himself lower in the pecking order. Despite limited game time so far this season, Le Bris highlighted the importance of healthy competition, noting that the added depth will push all three players to perform at their best.

The Sunderland aspect Luke O’Nien has been proud of this season despite disappointing end

27/05/2024 Raymond 0

Luke O’Nien reflects on his position as a centre-back for Sunderland and the team’s defensive performance during the 2023/24 season. He acknowledges that Sunderland’s defensive statistics this season are commendable but believes there is still potential for improvement.

Throughout the 2023/24 campaign, the 29-year-old O’Nien started 43 league games at centre-back, frequently captaining Sunderland and often partnering with Dan Ballard. Despite setbacks from injuries to key defenders like Dennis Cirkin, Jenson Seelt, and Aji Alese, Sunderland achieved the fifth-best defensive record in the Championship. O’Nien expressed pride in the team’s defensive achievements and emphasized the importance of their strong statistics, while also stressing the need for continued improvement in the coming season.

O’Nien also spoke about the valuable contributions of Graeme Murty, the under-21s boss and former Premier League defender, who stepped up to assist the first team. He credited Murty with significantly enhancing his game both on and off the pitch, underscoring the importance of maintaining this collaboration to further develop their defensive capabilities.