The official Sunderland AFC Thread

The official Sunderland AFC Thread @4chan

News/Chat/Talk/Signings

Continued from the other threads:
http://dis.4chan.org/read/sports/1365944897/
http://dis.4chan.org/read/sports/1224778737/

In the end zone - in the six

Its not really a shock. Newcastle have been known as a laughing stock for years now.

Good old Arsenal,
Good old Arsenal,
we're proud to say that name.
And while we sing this song,
we'll win the game.

Vieira wo o e o, Vieira wo o eo,
he comes from Senengal,
he plays for Arsenal,
Vieira wo o e o, Vieira

He's blond, Hes quick
His names a porno flick,
emmanuel, emmanuel

One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal!
(repeat)

We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal!
(repeat)
Que sera sera
Que sera sera
what ever will be will be
we`re going to Wemberly
que sera sera.


Roll out the Arsenal
Roll out the Arsenal
Lets have a barrel of fun
Roll out the Arsenal
We've got them all on the run
Just one more goal now
Then how we all will cheer 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,
The Gang's all here

You are my Arsenal
You are my Arsenal,
My only Arsenal,
You make me happy,
When skies are grey,
You'll never know just,
How much I love you,
So please don't take,
My Arsenal...Away
Na na na na na (ooh)
Na na na na na (ooh ooh)
na na na na na...

We hate Nottingham Forest
We hate Liverpool too
We hate West Ham United
But Arsenal we love you

Who's that team they call the Arsenal?
Who's that team we all adore?
They're the boys in red and white,
and they fight with all their might,
and they're out to show the world just how to score!"

Despite an expectation that Paolo Di Canio is content with his options in the final third of the field as the new season draws near, talk late on Tuesday night turned to a reported rejected bid made by Sunderland for the services of Fenerbahce forward, Moussa Sow.

Reports coming out of Turkey seemed to suggest that an offer in the region of £12m had been rejected by Sow’s parent club and this news certainly piqued the interest of Sunderland fans given the high profile clubs that have been interested in his signature.

Previously this summer Arsenal were linked with the powerful forward, and he has also been on the radar of the likes of Spurs and Liverpool.

Casting an eye over Sow’s goal scoring record it quickly comes apparent why a number of high profile Premier League sides have been keeping tabs on the Senegalese striker who really made his name during a spell in France with Lille, where he scored over thirty goals in a two season spell, finishing top goal scorer in 2010/11 and helping his side to their first domestic title in over fifty years.

It is no secret that Sunderland are desperately looking to fill both full back positions.
More recently Sow has been plying his trade in Turkey, where he has continued his goal scoring exploits, finding the back of the net on twenty-two occasions since his move last January.

If Sunderland’s interest proves to be genuine, rather than just some cheeky ploy by some naughty agent to engineer a move for their client, it would be safe to assume that one of Sunderland’s current attacking options would likely be sacrificed, with the most likely candidate seemingly Ji Dong-Won.

Following an impressive loan spell with Augsburg last term, the South Korean bean pole reportedly caught the eye of German giants and Champions League finalists Borrusia Dortmund along with a host of other Bundesliga sides.

Despite looking to struggle with the pace and physicality of the Premier League at first following his arrival on Wearside, Ji certainly found his feet at Augsburg and looked to be developing nicely, so much so that Sunderland turned down advances from Dortmund and elected to have another look at him back on Wearside this summer.

That being said, if a deal for Sow is on Sunderland’s ‘to-do list’ then I would expect Ji would eventually make way to help balance the books somewhat.

However, at this stage, I would recommend taking such links with the Fenerbahce man with a fairly hefty pinch of salt.

It is no secret that Sunderland are desperately looking to fill both full back positions and also for a more creative option in the centre of the park and I would place a decent sized bet that these are the areas where the club are solely concentrating at this moment in time given their urgency.

Watch this space I guess.

ulham are closing in a swoop for Sunderland's midfielder and former captain Lee Cattermole.

Cattermole has been told by manager Paolo Di Canio that he can leave the Stadium of Light.

The Black Cats’ no-nonsense Italian manager has initiated a huge shake-up this summer and wants rid of the red-card-magnet midfielder nicknamed 'Clattermole'.

The former England Under-21 international is now in talks with Fulham boss Martin Jol, who has cash to spend following the west London club’s takeover by US tycoon Shahid Khan.

Sunderland paid Wigan £6million for Cattermole in 2009, but are now set to let him go for around £2.5m.

Last month, we revealed that flop Sunderland striker Danny Graham was being farmed out on loan to Prem new boys Hull as part of Di Canio’s extensive remodelling.

Sunderland eye Quincy Owusu-Abeyie transfer as he waits for Crystal Palace offer

Ex-Arsenal winger can leave Panathinaikos for free and has been playing for Palace in pre-season PLUS Colback latest

Sunderland could hijack Crystal Palace’s bid for Quincy Owusu-Abeyie.

Former Arsenal winger Owusu-Abeyie has been on trial with Premier League new boys Palace, but is yet to be offered a contract.

Now, the Black Cats' manager Paolo Di Canio is weighing up a move to bring the well-travelled Ghana international to Wearside.

The 27-year-old, who was loaned out at Birmingham, Cardiff and Portsmouth during a three-year stint with the Gunners, has been told he can leave his current club, Greek giants Panathinaikos.

Elsewhere, Di Canio wants a decision from homegrown midfielder Jack Colback, who is stalling on a new contract offer.

Colback has just 12 months left on his current deal at the Stadium of Light, and newly-promoted duo Hull and Cardiff are ready to offer the 23-year-old a fresh challenge.

Di Canio would love to keep the former England youth international, who has also filled in successfully at left-back in making almost 100 appearance for a club he joined at age 10.

The Italian wants a swift decision: “I’ve spoken to Jack twice recently, he’s a genuine guy with a fantastic attitude.

“He has to make clear what he wants to do in the future because if a player has it in his brain to leave, it’s difficult.”

>>123 >>124

No, no, no... Read what I just said: >>122

Good old Arsenal,
Good old Arsenal,
we're proud to say that name.
And while we sing this song,
we'll win the game.

Vieira wo o e o, Vieira wo o eo,
he comes from Senengal,
he plays for Arsenal,
Vieira wo o e o, Vieira

He's blond, Hes quick
His names a porno flick,
emmanuel, emmanuel

One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal!
(repeat)

We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal!
(repeat)
Que sera sera
Que sera sera
what ever will be will be
we`re going to Wemberly
que sera sera.


Roll out the Arsenal
Roll out the Arsenal
Lets have a barrel of fun
Roll out the Arsenal
We've got them all on the run
Just one more goal now
Then how we all will cheer 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,
The Gang's all here

You are my Arsenal
You are my Arsenal,
My only Arsenal,
You make me happy,
When skies are grey,
You'll never know just,
How much I love you,
So please don't take,
My Arsenal...Away
Na na na na na (ooh)
Na na na na na (ooh ooh)
na na na na na...

We hate Nottingham Forest
We hate Liverpool too
We hate West Ham United
But Arsenal we love you

Who's that team they call the Arsenal?
Who's that team we all adore?
They're the boys in red and white,
and they fight with all their might,
and they're out to show the world just how to score!"

Sunderland to step up chase for Aston Villa and West Ham target Zdravko Kuzmanovic

SUNDERLAND appear to have moved into pole position to sign Inter midfielder Zdravko Kuzmanovic.

Rumours about a Sunderland move for Kuzmanovic surfaced last week, but now reports in Italy suggest that the Black Cats are set to formalise their interest.

Kuzmanovic has also been linked with a move to Aston Villa and West Ham.

Sam Allardyce confessed that Kuzmanovic is a player he was interested in but West Ham were rebuffed in their pursuit of the 25-year-old after the player's agent said he expected the Serbian international to remain with Inter.

Kuzmanovic only joined the club from Stuttgart in January and is not thought to be ready to give up on Serie A, despite making only ten starts last term.

In response to the West Ham speculation Kuzmanovic's agent Marko Naletillic said: "The future of Kuzmanovic is simple.

"He will be staying with Inter and that is for certain."

But that hasn't stopped Sunderland and Aston Villa also being linked with a move for the player.

It was thought that a £5m fee may be enough for Inter to cut their losses on Kuzmanovic, but it appears Paolo Di Canio may have a tougher task getting the player to agree to make the move to Wearside.

Kuzmanovic was highly regarded during his time at Stuttgart, and Arsenal were linked with a move for the player, but Italian-speaking Kuzmanovic was very clear that a move to Serie A was his preference.

It remains to be seen whether the influx of Italians at Sunderland during the off-season has any impact on Kuzmanovic's reluctance to move to England.

With Paolo Di Canio so far having recruited no fewer than nine unfamiliar faces to the Stadium of Light this summer, the veteran defender is pleased by the early indications

Sunderland defender John O'Shea has been impressed by the quality of Paolo Di Canio's summer recruits thus far.

The Republic of Ireland international has already had the opportunity to play alongside the nine new additions and has seen Cabral and David Moberg-Karlsson instantly impress with goals in the Black Cats' 3-1 win over Tottenham in the Asia Trophy.

 
TRANSFER TALK
Also among the arrivals are Emanuele Giaccherini, Modibo Diakite, Valentin Roberge, Vito Mannone and big-money striker Jozy Altidore.

"The quality of players that the manager has brought in is pleasing," O'Shea told the club's official website. "Giaccherini has not been here long, but already you can see from his first touch he's got that bit of class – it's very pleasing on the eye.

"His link-up play with the strikers looks good and, if we can get him fully fit and get Jozy Altidore banging in goals, alongside Sess [Stephane Sessegnon], who's looking fantastic, it's going to be exciting.

"We've got a lot more attacking options than we've had before; the new players, [Steven] Fletcher - when he comes back - [Connor) Wickham and Ji [Dong-Won], who's come back from Germany looking a lot sharper.

"There's going to be a lot of competition for places, which can only be a good thing and should see us push our way up the table."

The non-stop transfer whirlwind that has engulfed Wearside this summer shows no sign of passing, with James McClean the latest member of the Sunderland squad to be linked with a move away.

The Scottish Champions Celtic are reportedly lining up a £2.5m deal for the Irish International, a fee which may just tempt Di Canio to part with the winger in a bid to recoup some of the outlay which was spent on Emanuele Giaccherini, who has surely usurped young McClean from the Sunderland first team.

McClean’s Sunderland career to date, albeit a short one, has been an intriguing, rollercoaster of a ride.

Steve Bruce brought the unknown man from Derry to the North-East for a nominal fee of around £350k but was quick to identify his new recruit as ‘one for the future’ and a spell in the reserves beckoned.

McClean didn’t have to wait to long for his chance however, and boy did he make the most of an opportunity granted to him by Steve Bruce’s successor, Martin O’Neill. McClean was simply sensational following his debut in December of 2011 and indeed was instrumental throughout the upturn in fortunes at Sunderland which coincided with Martin O’Neill’s arrival.

The confidence seemed to have evaporated from his game along with any ability to beat his man.
As an unknown quantity in the Premier League, opposition defences had no idea who McClean was, or indeed how to deal with the threat he posed. This undoubtedly helped James no end as he quickly made a name for himself with a swashbuckling, fearless and fantastically naive approach to wing play which was a joy to behold.

James would go on to claim the Young Player of the Year Award that season and seemed to have the world at his feet.

However, the following season would see the young Irishman come back down to Earth with an almighty bump.

A volatile blend of controversy surrounding his political stance with regards to wearing a remembrance poppy, a series of ill-advised outbursts on Twitter and an almighty case of ‘second season syndrome’ saw McClean desperately struggle to match the blistering form he had showed the previous term.

McClean simply wasn’t the same player he once was. The confidence seemed to have evaporated from his game along with any ability to beat his man, which had bizarrely been replaced by an irrational desire to cut inside from the left wing onto his, far, far, far weaker right foot.

Couple all of the above together with Di Canio’s drastic revolution at the club and McClean’s future certainly looks unclear and a fresh start might be best for both parties in this instance.

Quite whether McClean will ever recapture the magical form he first displayed or whether he will simply forever be known as a ‘one season wonder’ remains to be seen, but it would appear that he is surplus to requirements under Sunderland’s new regime.

The Black Cats goalkeeper is encouraged by how the team are shaping up under the Italian boss, and believes new signings Cabral and Jozy Altidore will impress this season

Keiren Westwood believes Paolo Di Canio's revolution at Sunderland will pay dividends this season.

The Italian manager has made eight new signings ahead of the 2013-14 campaign, with the likes of Emanuele Giaccherini and Jozy Altidore joining from Serie A champions Juventus and Eredivisie outfit Twente respectively.

 
Sunderland only just avoided the drop by finishing 17th in the Premier League last season, with a late run of good form helping them pull three points clear of relegated Wigan.

And goalkeeper Westwood, who will face competition from new-boy Vito Mannone for the No.1 jersey, has backed the new signings to help Sunderland progress this season.

"There are a lot of new signings in the squad and we’re evolving to the way the manager wants us to play," the Ireland international told the club's official website.

"The lads who were here when he arrived last season know what he [Di Canio] expects from us and now it’s up to the new players to get up to speed.

"Cabral [signed from Basel] impressed me against Spurs and I think Jozy [Altidore] will make an impact."

Sunderland told El-Hadji Ba isn’t the finished article

SUNDERLAND have been warned that transfer target El-Hadji Ba is a long way from being Premier League-ready by the 19-year-old’s current club.

The Black Cats have followed the lead of neighbours Newcastle United by scouting for young talent in France. Their investigations have led them to Le Havre’s Ba (pictured left). A renowned breeding ground, the Ligue 2 club are used to losing their top players, but the chairman of their education centre, Johann Louvel, is hopeful Ba will not leave just yet.

The fact Ba is still on a trainee contract and free to leave in the summer means he is powerless to intervene if Sunderland, Tottenham Hotspur or Borussia Dortmund follow up their interest.

“I hope there won’t be any developments (over Ba’s future),” Louvel told French sports paper L’Equipe.

“We will meet his representatives soon and we hope to find an agreement for everyone’s interest.” Ba revealed Sunderland’s interest in January, declaring himself “flattered” by it.

Whether simply an attempt by Louvel to delay the seemingly inevitable or not, he has suggested the defensive midfielder does not yet have the stamina to play in a top league. “He still has difficulties to hold on more than one hour (in a game), so he still has to make a lot of basic work to be able to repeat efforts,” he said. “So I cannot see any sport or financial interest for him to leave us.”

That said, Sunderland probably do not see Ba as a player to go directly into their first team, but one for their academy coaches to refine, so whether that less than glowing recommendation would actually put them off is doubtful.

Ba has played for his country at under-18, under-19 and under-20, forming a productive partnership with another Le Havre graduate, Juventus’ Paul Pogba. The Black Cats have also been linked with Hannover striker Didier Ya Konan, along with Wigan Athletic.

The 28-year-old Ivory Coast international has scored five Bundesliga goals this season for the Europa League qualifiers. And Konan would certainly welcome interest from England.

“I have always dreamt of playing in the Premier League but nothing has happened so far,” he said.

“I heard about teams interested through my representative in the UK but nothing has happened.

“I am here in Hanover. We are trying to finish the season strongly and see at the end of the season. We played in Europe this season and we want to do that again.”

Meanwhile, Fulham manager Martin Jol has said Kieran Richardson “should” be a top-class left-back.

The Londoner has had an injury-hit debut season at Craven Cottage, restricted to just eight starts – six in midfield – since joining from the Black Cats. He is, however, pushing for another against his old club at the Stadium of Light tomorrow after recovering from a calf problem.

The Manchester United product’s ability to play a number of positions has always been a mixed blessing for him, but Jol has suggested his best position may be in defence. “He’s a versatile player, he can play on the left, he can play in midfield and he can play left-back,” said the Dutchman. “And I feel that he should be – not could be – a terrific left-back because he did that before.

“He had a good season with Steve Bruce as a left-back but then he played a bit differently so if you give him the licence to express himself I think he will be good as a left-back.”

Cash turnstiles will be in operation tomorrow and £30 adult tickets are available from 1.30pm. No concessions are available at the turnstiles, although they can be bought from the ticket office, which is open from 10am until kick-off.

>>127 >>128 >>129 >>130 >>131

ENGLISH MOTHERFUCKER. DO YOU SPEAK IT?!

Good old Arsenal,
Good old Arsenal,
we're proud to say that name.
And while we sing this song,
we'll win the game.

Vieira wo o e o, Vieira wo o eo,
he comes from Senengal,
he plays for Arsenal,
Vieira wo o e o, Vieira

He's blond, Hes quick
His names a porno flick,
emmanuel, emmanuel

One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal!
(repeat)

We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal!
(repeat)
Que sera sera
Que sera sera
what ever will be will be
we`re going to Wemberly
que sera sera.


Roll out the Arsenal
Roll out the Arsenal
Lets have a barrel of fun
Roll out the Arsenal
We've got them all on the run
Just one more goal now
Then how we all will cheer 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,
The Gang's all here

You are my Arsenal
You are my Arsenal,
My only Arsenal,
You make me happy,
When skies are grey,
You'll never know just,
How much I love you,
So please don't take,
My Arsenal...Away
Na na na na na (ooh)
Na na na na na (ooh ooh)
na na na na na...

We hate Nottingham Forest
We hate Liverpool too
We hate West Ham United
But Arsenal we love you

Who's that team they call the Arsenal?
Who's that team we all adore?
They're the boys in red and white,
and they fight with all their might,
and they're out to show the world just how to score!"

After being frustrated in our attempt to sign a right back, have we returned for one of the first players linked with Sunderland during this window?

The Gino Peruzzi saga is still rumbling on, yesterday it emerged that Italian side Catania had shown interest in signing the Argentine defender, then the Velez president, Miguel Calello, said that until he gets a definitive 'no' from Sunderland, he does not consider the defender's move to be over.

All of which means Sunderland are still waiting to solve their problem right back position and with the season drawing ever closer, the prospect of Craig Gardner filling in there once again grows.

There may be light at the end of the tunnel though, with reports emerging from Italy that suggest Sunderland have gone back to the drawing board and re-entered the race to sign Torino right back Danilo D'Ambrosio. D'Ambrosio was actually the first right back linked to the club this summer, in fact regular readers of Roker Report, will have noticed his name on our weekly column 'The Gossip' since this summer's first edition of that feature.

The 24-year-old, who has one year remaining on his contract, is highly rated in Italy and has been tracked by a number of clubs, including Napoli and Inter Milan. With his contract running down, his agent has admitted that he will leave Torino this summer and although it was a difficult decision, they both feel it's time he had a change of scenery.

It's thought that Torino want €4m for D'Ambrosio and considering he is currently earning a little over £5,000 per week, he will almost certainly fit into the young, hungry and relatively cheap model the club are targeting.

Whether there is any truth behind this link remains to be seen but there is currently a meeting set for Friday, so D'Ambrosio, his representative and Torino can work out a solution that suits all three parties, hopefully that means it won't be another long running saga and we will get some answers by the end of the week.

Steven Fletcher set to miss Sunderland's big kick-off

Steven Fletcher is likely to be out of action until September as he battles back from ankle surgery


Steven Fletcher is likely to be out of action until September as he battles back from ankle surgery.

And that means Sunderland are unlikely to let Connor Wickham leave before the start of the campaign – despite interest from QPR, Sheffield Wednesday and Ipswich.

Fletcher was not included in the Sunderland travelling party that trekked to Hong Kong for the Barclays Asia Trophy as he continues his rehabilitation from an ankle injury and initially feared that he may not be in contention until towards the end of September. There are now hopes that he will be back before then, but The Journal understands the Black Cats are likely to have to start the season without him, and that has knock-on effects for their striker options.

Di Canio confirmed in Hong Kong that he did not want to sign another striker and will start the season, with Jozy Altidore as the main target man. But with Ji Dong-Won likely to be sold, he intends to retain Wickham to give him options in the striking department.

It also means that Stephane Sessegnon, who was impressive in spells in Hong Kong, is more likely to stay at the Stadium of Light. The Black Cats will listen to offers for the Benin striker but there has been no more than tentative interest in him so far.

The Sunderland boss is keen to integrate Fletcher into his preferred system and has seen plenty about the former Wolves man that he likes. But the serious injury sustained on international duty has prevented Di Canio from working with the forward.

There has not been a setback in his comeback plans, but he was left out of Scotland’s squad to face England recently, which was an indication that he is still some way from being available for first-team action. Sunderland continue to re-mould their squad and yesterday allowed Alfred N’Diaye to leave on a season-long loan to Turkish top-flight side Eskisehirspor.

It is understood a fee has been agreed for the midfielder if the move works out, but either way, it appears N’Diaye’s short Sunderland career is over.

The club were linked with Portuguese midfielder Manuel Fernandes  – who is in the final year of his contract with Besiktas – and are looking for more of a creative presence in the engine room.

N’Diaye struggled to make an impression after moving to Sunderland in January and, while he won admirers for his effort, Di Canio is looking to move the Black Cats up a level next year.

He already has Craig Gardner, Jack Colback and Cabral who can play in the holding midfielder role – while Lee Cattermole could also be deployed there if Di Canio reconsiders his stance on the former Middlesbrough man.

Gardner may also start the season at right-back unless Sunderland manage to sign one of the two full-backs he is looking to recruit.

“I just want to play as many games as I can this season, no matter what position it is,” he said.

“I would rather play anywhere than be on the bench. I am playing in pre-season. I have played four full games and I am enjoying it.

“It (pre-season) is tough, I admit it. But it is a good tough because training is hard. I am a firm believer that the attitude to training should be the same as it is in life generally.

“If you work hard in life you get a good life.

“That is what we are doing as far as training is concerned, so hopefully we will have a good season.”

A round-up of transfer news involving Sunderland AFC.

Paolo Di Canio looks to be closing in on his ninth summer signing as Panathanaikos winger Charis Mavrias is due to arrive on Wearside this week to undergo a medical.

One player who Di Canio looks like missing out on is the Argentina defender Lucas Orban who is expected to sign for Bordeaux.

Sky Tyne and Wear understands that despite links to both Fulham and Newcastle United, Phil Bardsley is yet to speak with any club regarding his future.

We also believe Paolo Di Canio is due to meet with Lee Cattermole’s representatives in the very near future to discuss his future.

A source close to Cattermole told Sky Tyne and Wear that the former Middlesbrough man is likely to leave the Stadium of Light on loan if no bids are received for him.

James McClean could also be on his way out. Paolo Di Canio has been playing Emanuele Giaccherini and Adam Johnson as his two wingers in pre-season and McClean is not guaranteed a starting sport.

The Republic of Ireland international had a number of off-field incidents last season and Celtic are thought to be readying themselves with an offer in the region of £2.5million.

FASTER, fitter, stronger, and not too shabby in the footballing department either.

It’s always dangerous to read too much into pre-season friendlies, but what little fans have seen of a new look Sunderland this summer will have at least given them reasons to be cheerful.

Their display against Tottenham in the semi-final of the Asia Trophy last week had plenty of positives, and while the final – a 1-0 defeat to Manchester City on Saturday – didn’t go to plan, the Black Cats were far from disgraced against the eventual competition winners.

In fact, Sunderland started the brighter of the two sides, and despite City missing a penalty, and having other chances, the Wearsiders gave a decent show of themselves on a pitch that resembled a local park in mid-October.

Paolo Di Canio’s men have one more pre-season run-out left to play – away to Danish outfit FC Midtjylland next Wednesday.

In an ideal world, the Italian would hope to have all of his transfer business done in terms of new arrivals.

However, while I’m sure work continues to take place behind the seasons, there has been little more than speculation in recent days over who is or isn’t coming to the club.

And it might well be that there are no new arrivals ahead of the clash with the Danes.

That certainly wouldn’t be a catastrophe, but it could mean that Sunderland have to rethink their plans for the start of the season.

Di Canio has made it clear that he is still looking to add two full-backs and a ‘keys to the door’ player to his squad.

But whether they arrive in time to be whipped into shape for the 2013/14 Premier League campaign remains to be seen.

The Sunderland boss has been willing to throw Emanuele Giaccherini, Cabral, Vito Mannone and Jozy Altidore straight into the mix during pre-season.

While others such as David Moberg Karlsson and El-Hadji Ba have been used as substitutes.

Valentin Roberge has only had a couple of minutes’ run out, and Modibo Diakite has missed out with a knock.

But the later the arrivals of further new faces may mean the Italian is reluctant to hand them a starting berth at the beginning of the new season.

So, Sunderland could start with Jack Colback and Craig Gardner as makeshift full-backs against Fulham on August 17.

That’s no huge hardship, both have played there before and have done well out in Hong Kong.

But fans will hope to see two new full-backs and a playmaker in a red and white shirt before too long.

PAOLO DI CANIO realises that some of his new signings will take longer than others to settle at Sunderland.

Four of Sunderland’s summer arrivals – Jozy Altidore, Emanuele Giaccherini, Vito Mannone and Cabral – started both of the Black Cats’ encounters in the Barclays Asia Trophy, with David Moberg Karlsson also impressing from the substitute’s bench.

But of their fellow new boys, Modibo Diakite didn’t travel to Hong Kong due to injury, El-Hadji Ba gave away a penalty in Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Manchester City and Valentin Roberge played just three minutes of the two games in the Far East.

Di Canio is not concerned though and says it is not easy to adapt to both his regime and playing in a different country.

“Some of the players come from abroad, Giaccherini for example,” said Di Canio.

“I’m very happy with him.

“He understands my philosophy straightaway.

“Some others may take a bit more time, but it’s not an issue.

“Saturday was only the second real test for us after 23 days together.

“Some of them have suffered during our pre-season, because as they told me, it’s never happened to them. They’ve ran a lot and done double sessions every day.”

Di Canio also acknowledges there will be set-backs during his attempts to revolutionise Sunderland’s prospects with a new-look squad.

But the Italian insists he is encouraged by the pre-season signs from his side and is confident of what lies ahead for the Black Cats.

When asked whether he was optimistic for the new campaign, Di Canio replied: “Absolutely yes.

“We’re in the process of trying to understand each other and some players still don’t completely understand what I want from him, in terms of attitude.

“Everybody has got his own way to approach the game.

“But we still have a long time.

“Sometimes, even with top players, you know they’re never going to change their mentality into a different culture.

“I know that in this process you can have ups and downs, so it’s important that we realise and understand that.”

Its nice to get some honest insight into the things going on behind the scenes. PDC is very forthright with his outlook on things which is great for us fans wanting titbits of info we wouldn't normally get. There's always an element of stating the obvious but it feels less cliched when PDC does it.

>>138
Lennon's looking at the Ajax winger now,we need to get McClean up there asap.

>>139
i thought we had got rid of patronising coaches that state the obvious then i remember, we arent sunderland anymore we are the dicanio roadshow, i hope thats just HP sauce on your tash fabster

I can do this all the way to 1000

>>133 >>134 >>135 >>136 >>137

"Once I thought I was out, they pull me right back in!"

Good old Arsenal,
Good old Arsenal,
we're proud to say that name.
And while we sing this song,
we'll win the game.

Vieira wo o e o, Vieira wo o eo,
he comes from Senengal,
he plays for Arsenal,
Vieira wo o e o, Vieira

He's blond, Hes quick
His names a porno flick,
emmanuel, emmanuel

One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal!
(repeat)

We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal!
(repeat)
Que sera sera
Que sera sera
what ever will be will be
we`re going to Wemberly
que sera sera.


Roll out the Arsenal
Roll out the Arsenal
Lets have a barrel of fun
Roll out the Arsenal
We've got them all on the run
Just one more goal now
Then how we all will cheer 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,
The Gang's all here

You are my Arsenal
You are my Arsenal,
My only Arsenal,
You make me happy,
When skies are grey,
You'll never know just,
How much I love you,
So please don't take,
My Arsenal...Away
Na na na na na (ooh)
Na na na na na (ooh ooh)
na na na na na...

We hate Nottingham Forest
We hate Liverpool too
We hate West Ham United
But Arsenal we love you

Who's that team they call the Arsenal?
Who's that team we all adore?
They're the boys in red and white,
and they fight with all their might,
and they're out to show the world just how to score!"

Away Day Guide: Sunderland (For Crystal Palace FC)

Stadium: The Stadium of Light
Capacity: 49,000
Address: The Sunderland Stadium of Light, Sunderland, SR5 1SU
Telephone: 0191 551 5000
Club website: www.safc.com

Getting There

By car:
From the A19 take the A1231, signposted Sunderland North. Go straight across four roundabouts, then keep in the left-hand lane and follow signs for B1289 (Roker). Continue on this road and the stadium will be on your right.

Parking:
The Stadium of Light has 1,146 parking spaces for supporters as well as space for up to 24 coaches. You can park at the Stadium of Light Metro Station at a cost of £4 per car, or alternatively, parking is available in the city centre around a 10-15 minute walk from the ground. There is also a 'Park and Ride' scheme in operation on matchdays. This runs from Sunderland Enterprise Park, which is well signposted just off the A1231. Buses run every five minutes, starting 90 minutes before kick-off and continue well after the game has finished. Many of the streets surrounding the stadium are residential so if parking in any surrounding streets please be respectful of local homeowners.

By train:
Sunderland train station is a 10-15 minute walk from the stadium. It has excellent links to the national rail network and Metro system. When travelling to the match, fans have the choice of arriving at either St. Peter’s or the Stadium of Light metro stations prior to the game.

Did You Know...
When opened in 1997 the name for the stadium was eventually revealed as the Stadium of Light, a reference to a miner's lamp (the stadium is built on the site of the old Wearmouth Colliery, and many Sunderland fans have worked in the region's mines). To emphasise the fact, a Davy lamp is located in front of the stadium's ticket office.

No Sunderland Exit For Stephane Sessegnon

Influential attacker is happy at the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland forward Stephane Sessegnon has insisted that he is happy with life in the Northeast and is not looking for a move away from the club this summer, Sky Sports understands.

Reports earlier this summer had suggested that Paolo Di Canio would be willing to listen to offers for the Benin international, even though he had only signed  new deal last August.

But so far, there have been no offers for the 29-year-old and he now appears to be a part of Di Canio’s plans meaning that a move could prove unlikely. Furthermore, he has insisted that he is happy at the club and is not looking to move on.

“The speculation is okay, I have no problem with that. But I’m happy at Sunderland,” he said.

“We have worked well in pre-season and hopefully we can continue like this. I’m enjoying it at Sunderland and my mind is for Sunderland now.”

Sessegnon arrived in Sunderland in 2011 from PSG for a fee of around £6 million. After showing spells of brilliance, though, he has been blighted with bouts of inconsistency, and rumours of an impending exit have done little to improve his situation.

However, after seeing Di Canio’s plans for the new season he has felt confident that he can make a major contribution to the side again.

“It’s a very important time, you need to have a pre-season. You need to do the hard work to start the season well,” he added.

“I think that affected me during the first few months of last season, but this year is different because we have had a good pre-season with a lot of good players coming.

“That’s made everyone work hard in training and we have got a strong mentality too among the players. It looks good already for the start of the season.”

Cattermole set for showdown talks with
Di Canio after Sunderland boss strips captain of squad number

Sunderland captain Lee Cattermole will have showdown talks with manager Paolo Di Canio this week.

Cattermole, who has a heel injury, was left out of the squad which travelled to Hong Kong and his number 6 squad number has gone to new signing Cabral.

Fulham and Hull are monitoring Cattermole’s situation.

Sunderland, meanwhile, have have made an enquiry for Besiktas midfielder Manuel Fernandes, 27, formerly of Everton and Portsmouth.

>>144
Cattermole could've been a great player, but his attitude on & off the pitch ruined that.

>>143

Then why isn't he denying his paedophilia?

Colback must make decision on Sunderland future

PAOLO DI CANIO says Jack Colback needs to come to a decision on his future, despite his admiration for the Sunderland academy product.

Colback’s destiny at the Stadium of Light remains uncertain after the 23-year-old turned down Sunderland’s offer of a new contract, with only 12 months remaining on his current deal.

Sunderland have no intention of letting Colback leave the club, despite interest from a number of their Premier League peers, including Hull and Cardiff City.

Di Canio has revealed he has had two conversations with Colback over his place in his plans and has been encouraged by the Tynesider’s attitude on the training field during pre-season.

But Di Canio insists that Colback will eventually have to make up his mind on where his future lies, to banish any uncertainty over his place at the club.

Di Canio told the Echo: “I’ve already spoken to him twice and he’s done very well.

“He’s a genuine guy with a fantastic attitude.

“Also, he’s got quality too.

“He has to make clear what he wants to do in the future because if one player has it in his brain to leave, it is difficult.

“But he’s got to keep going and keep behaving like he is.

“He doesn’t look like he’s having any difficulties. He’s one of the most positive young players we’ve got.

“I’m very happy with him.”

Colback has been deployed at left-back during pre-season - a position which the midfielder has covered regularly over the last two seasons.

But Di Canio remains in the hunt for a specialist left-back after a summer of frustration in the transfer market for that position, with moves for Benjamin Mendy and Lucas Orban both falling through.

Valencia’s Aly Cissokho continues to be linked with Sunderland, particularly as Liverpool’s interest seems to have cooled, but Di Canio wants Colback to continue to provide competition for that role next season.

And the Sunderland head coach says that playing at full-back will involve a far more attacking remit under the blueprint for his new-look side.

“Now we’re playing in a different way, he’s started to understand that as a left-back he becomes like a winger,” added Di Canio.

“With the system we’re going to use this year, both full-backs often during the game will become wingers.

“He’s going to enjoy it.”

Important season for Sunderland’s old heads, says O’Shea

JOHN O’SHEA realises the role Sunderland’s old heads have in integrating the club’s new signings into the fold.

Paolo Di Canio has brought eight players to the Stadium of Light so far this summer, with the Black Cats head coach hoping for another three recruits – two full-backs and a creative midfielder.

Only two of the fresh faces have plied their trade in the Premier League before – Jozy Altidore and Vito Mannone – with players arriving from the Italian, Swiss, Portugese and French leagues.

And O’Shea, 32, says there is a burden of responsibility on the likes of himself and fellow former Manchester United defender Wes Brown, 33, to ensure the new boys correspond to Di Canio’s blueprint.

“Obviously it helps having that experience when you’re blooding in new players because you’ve been there and done it,” O’Shea told the Echo.

“Whatever the decision the manager makes, we’ll get 100 per cent behind it and make sure it’s for the benefit of the team.

“At the end of the day, that’s what everyone is looking for from the squad.

“If a manager picks a certain team for certain games, everyone gets behind it. It’s not just for the benefit of one or two games.

“Wes has been fit now for the whole of pre-season and that has been a real, real boost for us.

“He’s a special player and fingers crossed he stays fit, because he would be like a new signing and a very valuable one at that.”

O’Shea saw multi-million pound overseas recruits both thrive and nose-dive during the decade he spent at Old Trafford.

And the Republic of Ireland international believes dedication on the training ground is the key factor for those who make the grade in the Premier League.

“You’ve got to be willing to be put in the hard work when you’re coming from overseas to realise the ambition of playing in one of the best leagues in the world,” added O’Shea.

“You have to have the ambition to improve yourself and show yourself to your own fans and the Premier League as well that you’re capable of playing in this league.

“To be fair, all the lads who’ve come in have shown a great attitude.

“They really have the hunger to do well.

“Let’s see how they settle in.

“Some of the young lads will maybe be away from home for the first time, but the North East is not so bad! It’s a friendly place.”

>>146
Are you speaking from personal experience, so your not denying it?

Sunderland fans: How optimistic are you?

As the new Premier League season arrives, we want to know how optimistic Sunderland fans are about the upcoming campaign

With the 2013/14 Premier League season a matter of weeks away, we want to know how optimistic Sunderland fans are about the upcoming season.

Paolo Di Canio has shaken things up on Wearside and is aiming to make his tenth signing of the summer.

The feisty Italian has not been one to shy away from what he believes, and because of this has offloaded a number of players he fell will not contribute enough to the club next season.

The Black Cats have been enjoying a positive pre-season, making the final of the Barclays Asia Trophy in Hong Kong. They defeated Gareth Bale and his Tottenham Hotspur side in the semi-final, only to be denied the title by Manchester City.

Ahead of the new season, we want to know how optimistic Sunderland fans are.

Let us know your thoughts by taking our expectations survey.

http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sunderland-fans-how-optimistic-you-5391001

>>146 Hey, we're with 2 now!

"Full steam ahead!"

Good old Arsenal,
Good old Arsenal,
we're proud to say that name.
And while we sing this song,
we'll win the game.

Vieira wo o e o, Vieira wo o eo,
he comes from Senengal,
he plays for Arsenal,
Vieira wo o e o, Vieira

He's blond, Hes quick
His names a porno flick,
emmanuel, emmanuel

One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal!
(repeat)

We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal!
(repeat)
Que sera sera
Que sera sera
what ever will be will be
we`re going to Wemberly
que sera sera.


Roll out the Arsenal
Roll out the Arsenal
Lets have a barrel of fun
Roll out the Arsenal
We've got them all on the run
Just one more goal now
Then how we all will cheer 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,
The Gang's all here

You are my Arsenal
You are my Arsenal,
My only Arsenal,
You make me happy,
When skies are grey,
You'll never know just,
How much I love you,
So please don't take,
My Arsenal...Away
Na na na na na (ooh)
Na na na na na (ooh ooh)
na na na na na...

We hate Nottingham Forest
We hate Liverpool too
We hate West Ham United
But Arsenal we love you

Who's that team they call the Arsenal?
Who's that team we all adore?
They're the boys in red and white,
and they fight with all their might,
and they're out to show the world just how to score!"

>>149
thats funny lol

>>151
Arsenal shitty team living in Chelsea's spotlight!!!

Sunderland fans: How fucking gay are you?

As the new Premier League season arrives, we want to know how fucking gay Sunderland fans are about the upcoming campaign

With the 2013/14 Premier League season a matter of weeks away, we want to know how fucking gay Sunderland fans are about the upcoming season.

Paolo Di Canio has shaken things up on Wearside and is aiming to make his tenth signing of the summer.

The feisty Italian has not been one to shy away from what he believes, and because of this has offloaded a number of players he fell will not contribute enough to the club next season.

The Black Cats have been enjoying a positive pre-season, making the final of the Barclays Asia Trophy in Hong Kong. They defeated Gareth Bale and his Tottenham Hotspur side in the semi-final, only to be denied the title by Manchester City.

Ahead of the new season, we want to know how fucking gay Sunderland fans are.

Let us know your thoughts by taking our expectations survey.

http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sunderland-fans-how-fucking gay-you-5391001

Newcastle United 0 Sunderland 3 - Stuart Rayner's match analysis

Newcastle United fans travelled to St James’ Park hoping to more or less bury Sunderland as a Premier League team

Newcastle United fans travelled to St James’ Park hoping to more or less bury Sunderland as a Premier League team. They ended it glancing anxiously over their shoulders.

No wonder their manager Alan Pardew looked like a guest at his own funeral. He had good cause to.

Pardew’s job is not in immediate danger, just as Steve Bruce’s was not when his Sunderland team were humiliated here 5-1. Yesterday’s defeat was the Magpies’ 5-1 moment.

It will take an awful lot of good work even from last season’s manager of the year to clamber his way back into credit after Newcastle’s biggest derby defeat since February 1979, sealed by a Gary Rowell hat-trick Sunderland fans not even born then still sing about.

Pardew admitted afterwards. “We’ll have to wear it, probably next year as well.

“That’s what happens when you lose one of these games.”

Unbeaten in Tyne-Wear derbies yesterday morning, Pardew’s record is suddenly one win in five.

It was only one game, but when his counterpart Paolo Di Canio claimed before the match it was “worth a thousand” in morale terms he could have been closer to the mark than someone so new to the region should be.

“Going down, going down,” chanted the Sunderland fans, echoing the most savoury of the chants aimed at their own players as they climbed off the team bus three hours earlier.

You should never take such terrace predictions with any thing less a few tablespoons of salt but, after the ecstasy of the previous week’s injury-time winner over Fulham, it is not out of the question they could be right.

With the exception of Hatem Ben Arfa on the bench, it was more or less Newcastle’s strongest side which was so utterly outplayed if you accept Fabricio Coloccini has quietly played his last game for the club.

It is going to get weaker. Tim Krul will not play again this season after dislocating his shoulder when he landed awkwardly trying to take a cross.

The day had a big-game feel. Flares were lit in the Sunderland section as the players walked out to the usual derby crescendo.

After the opening goal one ended up in the Newcastle fans below. At first glance, it even looked like referee Howard Webb had his own mascot, but it turned out to be diminutive lineswoman Sian Massey.

With Webb’s World Cup final colleague Darren Cann on the opposite touchline, neither side could complain the game had not been afforded the top officials, although it did not stop Cann wrongly flagging Papiss Cisse offside after he thought he had equalised on the hour.

Cheick Tioté was all hustle and bustle but precious little else.

Ineffective for the second big game in a week, Yohan Cabaye was substituted.

Cissé’s movement caused problems in the first half but his finishing did not and without that it was hard to see where Newcastle’s goal would come from.

Shola Ameobi played 45 minutes of a derby and did not even score, for goodness’ sake.

As usual after a European game, Newcastle started sluggishly. The difference was this time they never picked up.

Stéphane Sessègnon’s goal, capitalising on a sloppy Jonás Gutiérrez pass inexplicably played across his back line, prompted a brief flurry, but Simon Mignolet denied Cissé twice in quick succession.

That apart, the first half was all Sunderland, with more Geordies (but no Wearsiders) in their team pumped up by a new manager who was not just on the pitch with his players spiritually but often physically too.

Pardew complained afterwards about a penalty denied his side when the ball struck Carlos Cuellar’s hand in a goalmouth melée, but he was grasping at straws.

Twice Sunderland had dubious, but more convincing handball shouts of their own and between them Cann and Webb failed to see a big chunk of Danny Graham’s shirt in Steven Taylor’s hand at 0-0.

Pardew’s substitutions failed to turn the tide.

Too much was expected of a half-fit Ben Arfa, asked for the second time in a week to rescue his side.

Instead, Easington-born Adam Johnson produced the moment of magic.

David Vaughan followed it with a goal as stunning as the one he scored in the last Sunderland manager’s first win.

It could easily have been more.

Newcastle’s fans will be seeing a lot more of the three-fingered salute Di Canio gave to the delirious visiting supporters.

Inevitably, James McClean did the same.

Webb’s decision to add six minutes on at te end was just plain cruel.

Neither side is out of relegation danger and Sunderland still have less points than their neighbours.

However, a club which finished its last league game talking about top-ten finishes now has to worry more about the five-point gap to the relegation zone.

Mike Ashley is always conscious about getting value for money.

A season which started with such hope and was revived with a mid-season spending spree has not delivered it.

Brown targets Sunderland starting place

WES BROWN is ready for a fight to secure a spot in Sunderland’s starting XI this season.

Brown’s return to fitness has been one of the biggest plus points of Sunderland’s pre-season campaign after the former England international missed the whole of last season through a knee injury which looked to have ended his career.

The 33-year-old started both of Sunderland’s encounters in the Barclays Asia Trophy last week alongside John O’Shea and that pair looks the likeliest central defensive combination to start the Premier League campaign.

But with Brown now available again, Sunderland head coach Paolo Di Canio is not short on options at the heart of the back four.

Bosman arrivals Valentin Roberge and Modibo Diakite are both in the frame - albeit the latter missed the Asia Trophy through injury – while Carlos Cuellar is also in contention.

Yet Brown insists the competition is healthy, as he looks to make his first competitive appearance since injuring his knee against Middlesbrough in January, 2012.

Brown told the Echo: “We’ve made good signings at centre-half.

“I’ve seen them play and trained with them so it’s going to be good competition, but I’ve always said that you need that.

“They are good lads as well, so we help each other and watch how each other plays.

“Whoever plays, the others will try to support him in any way whatsoever.”

Brown completed almost three hours of game-time in Sunderland’s two Asia Trophy encounters against Tottenham and Manchester City – particularly heartening for him given the condition of the Hong Kong Stadium pitch.

The former Manchester United man acknowledges it will be a completely different scenario when Sunderland face Premier League sides on a competitive basis.

But Brown says it will have benefited Sunderland’s fitness to tackle quality performers at this tender stage of the campaign.

“It’s a bit different playing Premier League sides at this stage of the season,” he added.

“It’s probably everyone’s first or second game and it’s not as quick or physical as it would be in a normal season.

“But it’s a start, you know the players you’re playing against and it’s a chance to get your base.”

Transfert. L'Argentin Lucas Orban signe à Bordeaux
Footballlundi 29 juillet 2013
Le défenseur argentin Lucas Orban, qui évoluait la saison dernière à Tigre (1re div. argentine), s'est engagé avec les Girondins de Bordeaux (L1), a indiqué lundi River Plate, qui possédait la moitié des droits du joueur.

«Le latéral a refusé l'offre de River et rejoint le football européen. Il jouera à Bordeaux, qui l'a acheté 3,5 millions d'euros», explique le communiqué des Millonarios, qui ne précise pas la durée de l'engagement du joueur.

Formé à River Plate, Orban, âgé de 24 ans, disposait d'une proposition pour revenir dans son club formateur, deux ans après l'avoir quitté pour Tigre, qui avait acheté 50% des droits du joueur lors de son transfert. Mais le natif de Buenos Aires, qui peut aussi évoluer en défense centrale, a préféré découvrir l'Europe et la Ligue 1.

Sunderland boss Paolo Di Canio’s a man with a plan

INDECISION over selection for the Premier League opener doesn’t seem to be a problem for Paolo Di Canio.

From the moment the team sheets sprang off the printer in the Hong Kong Stadium last Wednesday, the Sunderland head coach gave the strongest possible indication that he was well aware of his first-choice XI to face Fulham on August 17.

The prominent among Sunderland’s summer signings were all included in the side which started both games in the Barclays Asia Trophy, as were the faithful descendants of the old regime.

But with only one more friendly for Sunderland’s players to mark their mark, where do Di Canio’s selection dilemmas lie in the next two-and-a-half weeks?

Certainly, further additions to the squad could change matters.

As Di Canio told the Gazette out in Hong Kong, there is a very definite list of requirements he still wants addressing before the window slams shut – two full-backs and a creative midfielder.

The continued absence of a specialist full-back in the squad – if the ostracised Phil Bardsley is not counted – remains the biggest concern among supporters, primarily because Sunderland have historically struggled to address the positions on either side of the defence.

Seeing deals for Gino Peruzzi, Benjamin Mendy and Lucas Orban fall through, plus Tottenham’s refusal to sell Danny Rose, has only heightened those worries.

The problem for Di Canio now is that even if he does sign a full-back or two before Fulham visit the Stadium of Light, then there is precious little time to integrate them into the fold.

They need a right-back more than a left-back too, with Craig Gardner serving the final game of a three-match ban on the opening day against Fulham.

Yet if Sunderland can make it through the Cottagers clash, Gardner and Jack Colback could well find themselves in the full-back slots if the new recruits take their time settling or are deadline-busting arrivals.

Is that a worry?Certainly, Colback is arguably as strong at left-back as he is in midfield and shepherded Aaron Lennon superbly in the Barclays Asia Trophy – although admittedly the Spurs winger couldn’t use his pace on such a sorry surface.

And while Gardner had several rushes of blood at right-back last season, he still played there more than in midfield, and produced some excellent performances.

Long-term, the Black Cats need specialists, but in the immediate term, neither stop-gap measure is a cause for sleepless nights.

The make-up of the other two members of the back four is far more predictable.

John O’Shea will surely be Sunderland’s skipper this season, and is the organiser of the defence, while Wes Brown adds the Rolls Royce element to the back-line.

Di Canio freely admits that he wasn’t planning anything around Brown. In fairness, neither were supporters.

Everyone had accepted that the 33-year-old would receive a cheque in the post from Sunderland to bring down the curtain on his playing career.

Everyone that is apart from Brown himself.

Suddenly, he has not just been thrust back into contention in the squad, but into the starting XI as well.

Di Canio continues to want to test Brown’s resilience. That is why he kept the former England international on the mud-bath pitch for the full 90 minutes against Manchester City on Saturday.

But with no full-backs yet on board and Modibo Diakite only resuming training with the main group again today, the defensive line is decided.

It is a similar story in midfield, at least until Di Canio can sign that midfielder capable of “unlocking the doors” as he put it.

Seb Larsson will be the most vulnerable, if and when that player is brought on board, with Cabral shining in the Far East.

The former Basel man has certainly not been brought in to make up the numbers.

The two wide midfield slots don’t seem in any doubt, with Emanuele Giaccherini and Adam Johnson both very much Di Canio favourites, and likely to start at Fulham.

Like the wingers, Sunderland’s two up front look assured of their places for Fulham, even at this stage.

Stephane Sessegnon has reaped the benefits of a tough pre-season programme, and seems to be revelling in the philosophy Di Canio is attempting to implement.

Sunderland could still be tempted to offload Sessegnon should they receive an acceptable offer for the Benin international.

But with Steven Fletcher likely to miss the start of the season and Connor Wickham and Ji Dong-won still to prove themselves for the Black Cats consistently, it would be foolhardy for Sunderland to offload Sessegnon now.

Arguably, the only big selection decision Di Canio has to make for Fulham is who starts the campaign as his No1 goalkeeper.

The presumption was that Keiren Westwood would be first-choice after the departure of Simon Mignolet.

But Di Canio gave a strong hint from his unchanged selection in Hong Kong of his preference for Vito Mannone, with the £2m arrival starting both games.

From the very first moment he stepped into the job, Di Canio has had a grand blueprint that he has been desperate to implement.

He knows what he wants, and he is making sure his players know it too.

Sunderland close in on Mavrias, but McClean's future is in limbo

WITH Sunderland edging closer to landing Greek winger Charis Mavrias, James McClean's future appears to be in limbo with Celtic ready to look elsewhere for attacking options.

Paolo Di Canio is expected to complete his tenth summer signing later on in the week with Panathinaikos winger Mavrias, who can also play at left-back, due on Wearside for a medical on Thursday.

The deal was in doubt last week after Sunderland reportedly cooled their interest in the player because his current employers were digging their heels in over the transfer.

However, the clubs have now reached an agreement over the fee, with the Black Cats reportedly paying £1.2m up front, which will rise to £2.5m later.

Di Canio was keen to bolster his creative ranks during the transfer window and has already signed Italian winger Emanule Giaccherini, who has started on the left side on midfield with Adam Johnson on the right in Sunderland's last two pre-season outings in the Asia Trophy.

With Stephane Sessegnon capable of playing a wide role and the imminent arrival of Mavrias, McClean appears to be slipping even further down the pecking order at the Stadium of Light.

The Republic of Ireland international failed to build on his debut season in the Premier League during the last campaign and his off-field controversies have left his future at the club uncertain.

Celtic were reported to have made an inquiry for the former Derry City man over the weekend, but sources North of the border believe manager Neil Lennon is looking at Ajax's Derk Boerrigter instead.

Lennon's assistant, Gary Parker, faced the media after Celtic's friendly defeat to Borussia Monchengladbach and denied the Bhoys had made a bid for McClean.

Meanwhile, despite being heavily linked with a move away from the Stadium of Light, Sessegnon insists he is happy at the club.

Reports earlier in the summer suggested the Black Cats were willing to cash in on the Benin international as Di Canio builds his own squad, but the attack-minded player appears to be enjoying life under his new manager.

"The speculation is OK, I have no problem with that. But I'm happy at Sunderland," Sessegnon revealed.

"We've worked very well in pre-season, and hopefully we can continue like this.

"I'm enjoying it at Sunderland, and my mind is for Sunderland now."

Di Canio's arrival seemed to galvanise the 29-year-old in the latter stages of last season and Sessegnon admits the squad are in great shape following their first pre-season under the Italian.

He said: "It's a very important time, you need to have a pre-season. You need to do the hard work to start the season well.

"I think that affected me during the first few months of last season.

"But this year is different because we've had a good pre-season, with a lot of good players coming. That's made everyone work hard in training, and we've got a strong mentality too among the players.

"It looks good already for the start of the season."

Sunderland will complete their pre-season schedule when they travel to Denmark to face FC Midtjylland next week.

The game will take place at the MCH Arena in Herning, on Wednesday, August 7, in a 6pm kick-off (local time).

Ticket details for the trip to face the Danish Superliga side will be announced shortly.

You know what, I'm sick of copy/pasting Sunderland shit. I'm converting to ARSENAL!

Good old Arsenal,
Good old Arsenal,
we're proud to say that name.
And while we sing this song,
we'll win the game.

Vieira wo o e o, Vieira wo o eo,
he comes from Senengal,
he plays for Arsenal,
Vieira wo o e o, Vieira

He's blond, Hes quick
His names a porno flick,
emmanuel, emmanuel

One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal,
One-nil to the Arsenal!
(repeat)

We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal,
We`ll win coz we`re Arsenal!
(repeat)
Que sera sera
Que sera sera
what ever will be will be
we`re going to Wemberly
que sera sera.


Roll out the Arsenal
Roll out the Arsenal
Lets have a barrel of fun
Roll out the Arsenal
We've got them all on the run
Just one more goal now
Then how we all will cheer 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,
The Gang's all here

You are my Arsenal
You are my Arsenal,
My only Arsenal,
You make me happy,
When skies are grey,
You'll never know just,
How much I love you,
So please don't take,
My Arsenal...Away
Na na na na na (ooh)
Na na na na na (ooh ooh)
na na na na na...

We hate Nottingham Forest
We hate Liverpool too
We hate West Ham United
But Arsenal we love you

Who's that team they call the Arsenal?
Who's that team we all adore?
They're the boys in red and white,
and they fight with all their might,
and they're out to show the world just how to score!"