Alex Neil

Top Free Agent Sparks Transfer Buzz, Engages in Talks with New Club After Stoke City Departure

02/09/2024 Raymond 0

In July 2023, Daniel Johnson joined Stoke City on a two-year contract, brought in by then-manager Alex Neil to strengthen the club’s midfield depth. Over the course of the season, Johnson made 31 appearances across all competitions, contributing two goals. Before his time at Stoke, Johnson honed his skills in the academies of Crystal Palace and Aston Villa, where he developed into the experienced midfielder the Potters sought to enhance their squad.

Ex-Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Stoke City man training with Wolves under-21s after summer release

09/07/2024 Raymond 0

The former Sunderland defender, Danny Batth, is now a free agent after being released at the end of the season. This summer, Batth returned to his former club, Wolves. The 33-year-old centre-back, who was voted Sunderland fans’ player of the season during the 2022-23 campaign, made only 16 Championship appearances for Norwich. According to a report from the Express & Star, Batth has been training with Wolves’ under-21s to maintain his fitness while negotiating with other clubs. However, a permanent return to Wolves is not expected for the former Middlesbrough and Stoke City player.

Ex-Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Stoke City man training with Wolves under-21s after summer release

09/07/2024 Raymond 0

The former Sunderland defender, Danny Batth, is now a free agent after being released at the end of the season. This summer, Batth returned to his former club, Wolves. Despite being voted Sunderland fans’ player of the season during the 2022-23 campaign, the 33-year-old centre-back was allowed to leave Wearside for Norwich, where he only made 16 Championship appearances. According to a report from the Express & Star, Batth has been training with Wolves’ under-21s for the past week to maintain his fitness while negotiating with other clubs. However, a permanent return to Wolves is not anticipated for the former Middlesbrough and Stoke City player.

Stoke City injury blow as midfielder ruled out for four months

27/06/2024 Raymond 0

Ben Pearson, Stoke City’s 29-year-old midfielder, faces a four-month recovery period following surgery for a persistent hamstring injury. Initially hoping to avoid surgery, Pearson ultimately required the procedure, which will likely see him miss the first ten games of the season and all pre-season preparations. Pearson, who joined Stoke permanently last summer from Bournemouth for a fee under £500,000, had a challenging season plagued by injuries, limiting his league appearances to 22.

Steven Schumacher, expressing his frustration, noted that Pearson had been working with the club’s physios all summer, but an undiagnosed hamstring issue necessitated the surgery. Schumacher remains hopeful for Pearson’s recovery and emphasized the importance of focusing on rehabilitation. Despite Pearson’s absence, Stoke City boasts a robust midfield lineup, including Josh Laurent, Wouter Burger, and emerging talent Sol Sidibe. Recent signings like Viktor Johansson and Eric Bocat further strengthen the squad. Schumacher remains pragmatic, urging Pearson to concentrate on his rehab to ensure a strong comeback.

Ex-Sunderland boss explains biggest regret and eyes next job five-and-a-half months after League One sacking

13/06/2024 Raymond 0

Former Sunderland manager Lee Johnson has been reflecting on his tenure at the Stadium of Light and expressed a strong desire to return to management. Johnson, who was dismissed by Fleetwood Town last December and later managed Hibernian in Scotland, shared his thoughts with the Daily Mail. He emphasized his eagerness to re-enter management, asserting his confidence in his abilities and the impact he can make. Johnson highlighted the competitive nature of football and hoped that his overall decade-long career would be considered rather than his recent challenges.

Reflecting on his time at Sunderland, Johnson expressed no regrets and spoke fondly of the club, its fans, and its facilities. He acknowledged his disappointment at not being able to see through the promotion but was pleased with the club’s success under Alex Neil’s leadership. Johnson cherished his experience at Sunderland, praising the club’s deep-rooted identity and the passion of everyone involved. Despite exploring various opportunities within football, Johnson’s passion for coaching remains undiminished. He described coaching as a driving force in his life, relishing the camaraderie, the excitement of wins, and the unique thrill of building something special.

The 4 Stoke City players surely keen to escape the club this summer

28/04/2024 Raymond 0

Despite rebuilding their squad last summer, it appears that additional reinforcements will be necessary.

This holds true regardless of the division they find themselves in next season, as new signings are required to rejuvenate the club and dispel the stagnation that has plagued it in recent times.

Given their lackluster performances in the Championship since their return, it is imperative that their recruitment efforts are precise and effective.

Transfer gossip: Sunderland line up England youth player to replace £20m-rated star

01/04/2024 Raymond 0

Amid preparations for the Championship’s decisive phase, Sunderland finds itself amidst a whirlwind of transfer news and speculations. The club is already scouting for a successor to Anthony Patterson in anticipation of heightened interest during the summer transfer window. Patterson, a homegrown talent, emerged as a pivotal figure during Sunderland’s League One campaign, playing a key role in their promotion via the playoffs. Maintaining his status as Sunderland’s primary goalkeeper under various managerial regimes, Patterson’s consistent performances have attracted significant attention, with reports indicating Sunderland’s valuation of £20 million for the Academy of Light graduate. However, Sunderland is now exploring alternatives and has reportedly set its sights on Wigan Athletic’s Sam Tickle.