Michael Beale

Tony Mowbray Reveals Heartfelt Mike Dodds Exchange After Tense Sunderland-Birmingham Clash

20/11/2024 Raymond 0

Tony Mowbray recently shared an emotional recollection of his conversation with Sunderland’s assistant head coach Mike Dodds after his bowel cancer diagnosis. Mowbray, who was managing Birmingham City at the time, revealed that he had to step down from his role due to health issues. “I remember getting emotional telling Doddsy,” Mowbray said. “I told him, ‘It’s not good, I’ve just been diagnosed with bowel cancer and I’m going to have to leave.’ He became emotional as well.” Mowbray described the physical toll of the illness, including days when he struggled to even get out of bed. Despite the challenges, he credited his family and the support from Birmingham’s staff for helping him through this difficult period.

Sunderland’s Dan Ballard Weighs In on Regis Le Bris and the Impact of Managerial Changes

04/09/2024 Raymond 0

Dan Ballard, Sunderland’s defender, recently reflected on the club’s challenging previous season, marked by multiple managerial changes. He admitted that the constant turnover wasn’t ideal but highlighted a renewed sense of optimism at the Stadium of Light, driven by Sunderland’s strong start to the Championship. Ballard, who returned from injury last month, praised the clear and effective playing style under new manager Regis Le Bris, which has significantly boosted the team’s confidence. Despite the setbacks of last season, Ballard is optimistic about the future, both for Sunderland and his role in the Northern Ireland squad following Jonny Evans’ retirement from international football.

Rangers in talks with player’s agent, Ibrox flop’s departure could fund striker transfer

14/08/2024 Raymond 0

Jose Cifuentes’ departure to Aris Thessaloniki could help fund a new signing for Rangers. While initial reports suggested an obligation to buy, it has been clarified that the Greek club has only secured an option to buy after his season-long loan. Former manager Michael Beale had high hopes for Cifuentes, praising his versatility as a midfielder. However, despite his potential, the Ecuadorian struggled to find his footing at Rangers. The hope is that his move to Greece will prove more successful than his previous loan to Brazil.

‘All over the place’… Former Sunderland loan man slams club over manager fiasco

20/06/2024 Raymond 0

Sunderland has now surpassed the four-month mark without having a manager in place. The club dismissed Michael Beale on February 19th, 2024, and appointed Mike Dodds as interim manager until the summer. Since then, it seems Sunderland owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus has missed out on several top candidates for the managerial position. Will Still, the top choice, reportedly agreed to replace Beale but ended up taking the RC Lens job. Liam Rosenior was then in line for further talks before he also withdrew, leaving Sunderland struggling in their search. Both Louis-Dreyfus and sporting director Kristjaan Speakman have faced significant criticism, and now former Sunderland loan player Alan Hutton has voiced his opinion on the matter.

Former Sheffield Wednesday boss linked with potential Championship return

17/06/2024 Raymond 0

Former Sheffield Wednesday manager Steve Bruce has been linked with a potential surprise return to the Championship this coming season. Bruce’s departure from the Owls in 2019, after a very brief stint at Hillsborough, left many fans in South Yorkshire displeased despite the decent compensation Wednesday received when he joined Newcastle United. Journalist Alan Nixon reports that Bruce is among the names being considered by Burnley as they search for Vincent Kompany’s successor. Although Bruce is not high on the list, Burnley is reportedly keen to bring in a big name following Kompany’s move to Bayern Munich.

Ex-Chelsea and Everton man addresses job speculation after Sunderland, Burnley and Rangers links

09/06/2024 Raymond 0

Frank Lampard, the former England, Derby County, Chelsea, and Everton player, has been linked with numerous managerial roles. Recently, he revealed that he has turned down several job offers, although he is keen to return to full-time management. Lampard, who managed Chelsea and Everton, was rumored to be a contender for the Sunderland head coach position following Tony Mowbray’s dismissal last season. While bookmakers frequently list him as a potential candidate for Sunderland’s next head coach, Lampard has chosen to wait for the right opportunity. Reflecting on this, he mentioned that although some opportunities did not feel right, he now feels ready to resume his career. “I’m certainly ready to work. I love doing what I do, so we will see,” he said.

The 45-year-old, who also managed Derby County, has enjoyed his break from football, noting that the intense nature of management often overshadows personal life. During his hiatus, he valued the time spent with his young family. Since his stint as Chelsea’s caretaker manager in 2023, Lampard has been linked to various roles, including positions at Canada, Rangers, Burnley, and Birmingham City. On air, he shared that while he appreciates the importance of working, the year off allowed him to focus on his family life, which includes his four children, two of whom are very young. He mentioned that this time away has also provided him the opportunity to reflect, watch games, and continue his professional development.

Sunderland must not give in to Trai Hume transfer pressure: View

20/05/2024 Raymond 0

The Black Cats experienced a turbulent 2023/24 season, finishing in a disappointing 16th place despite initially appearing poised for a playoff spot. Managerial instability, with three different managers over the season, contributed to their inconsistency. Tony Mowbray began the season but was replaced by Michael Beale in December, who had a brief and unimpressive tenure before Mike Dodds took over temporarily. Despite having a squad rich in young talent, their inexperience was likely a factor in their struggles. Among their standout players was 22-year-old Trai Hume, whose exceptional performance this season has attracted interest from top clubs. Retaining Hume should be a priority for Sunderland as they prepare for the next season.