WIGAN ATHLETIC have had an undisclosed offer for James McClean accepted and the Sunderland winger has been given permission to head for the DW Stadium for talks.
The Latics have been keeping an eye on the situation in recent weeks and have made the move - believed to be worth in the region of £1.5m - in an attempt to beat off the competition.
Sunderland are said to be aware of other clubs showing an interest in the Republic of Ireland winger and Wigan's bid has got things rolling.
Paolo Di Canio, the Black Cats boss, has been waiting for more players to move on before he can further add to his squad.
Celtic like McClean, 24, but have preferred transfer targets, while Blackburn Rovers and Queens Park Rangers have also previously been linked.
FROM Sunderland to Sweden – a charity has gone international to promote the benefits of the beautiful game.
Coaches from the Foundation of Light ran a three-day course, in partnership with Swedish side Villastadens IF, for 60 Swedish youngsters, aged nine to 14-years-old.
They also worked with Villastadens IF’s coaches to share skills.
Giles Sandercock, football development delivery manager at the foundation, said: “It was a real pleasure to travel to Sweden and work with such an attentive and hard-working group of youngsters.
“The staff at Villastadens IF were a pleasure to work with and we hope that this is the beginning of a long-lasting relationship.
“Courses such as these, whilst providing obvious benefit to the youngsters we work with, are also fantastic for the development of our own staff. By exposing them to different cultures, environments and so on, they constantly have to evaluate and assess what they do to make sure it’s right for the youngsters.”
Des Allen, co-ordinator at Villastadens IF, added: “The coaches who came over were true professionals and great ambassadors for Sunderland AFC. The youngsters who took part really enjoyed the course and our coaches felt they really benefited from taking part in the sessions.”
The foundation’s coaches will also make trips to Spain and Switzerland.
Remember when Tom Huddlestone was close to moving to Fulham or Sunderland? He never did, and now Cardiff are reportedly interested.
Tottenham Hotspur are probably still trying to sell Tom Huddlestone if they can get a decent fee, and according to the Daily Mail, Cardiff City are now interested in the Spurs midfielder.
Huddlestone played well enough last season to prove that he still deserves a shot at the Premier League level, but unfortunately, he still hasn't reached his former level of performance and appears to be surplus to requirements at White Hart Lane. He was reportedly close to moves to Fulham and Sunderland earlier in the transfer window, but neither came to fruition and those rumors have since died out.
The above-cited Mail article also states that Cardiff are interested in QPR midfielder/defender Stephane Mbia, who isn't anything like Huddlestone. If Cardiff sign him before we hear any more rumors about a Huddlestone move, it doesn't mean that it won't happen.
Cardiff have plenty of competent bodies in the center of midfield, but they're light on players who can pick a creative and accurate long pass from deep positions. Huddlestone has to be specifically accommodated due to his limitations, but he fits well into a three-man center of midfield with what the Bluebirds already have.
There's obviously nothing concrete here -- it's just the Mail saying that Cardiff are interested -- but this rumor makes sense for Spurs, Cardiff and Huddlestone.
The Black Cats made it four wins out of five friendlies in Denmark, with new signing Jozy Altidore setting up the former Manchester City man for the only goal of the game
Sunderland rounded off their preparations for the new Premier League campaign with a 1-0 win over FC Midtjylland in Denmark on Wednesday.
Adam Johnson grabbed his first goal of pre-season courtesy of an assist from new arrival Jozy Altidore in the first half, though Paolo Di Canio's men failed to add to their tally despite dominating the second period.
However, the Italian is still likely to be pleased with his side's efforts in their final fixture ahead of an opening-day Premier League clash with Fulham.
FC Midtjylland came into the game having already played three domestic fixtures but, despite making an encouraging start to proceedings that seemed to hint at their greater sharpness, they were soon behind
Altidore, whose fine goalscoring record has been regularly referenced since his switch from AZ Alkmaar, evidenced another side of his game as he teed up Johnson to curl a trademark effort in at the far post.
The hosts almost summoned a response not long after, as Keiren Westwood needed to be on his toes to keep out a Frank Kristensen effort.
But Sunderland looked the most likely to get another before the break, as Sebastian Larsson and Emanuele Giaccherini both went close.
The second period saw a host of changes - including an incredible eight in one go from FC Midtjylland - and both teams struggled to get going as a result.
A well-saved Stephane Sessegnon attempt was in truth as near as either side came, and Sunderland were rarely threatened as they saw out a fourth victory in five pre-season games.
FC Midtjylland 0 Sunderland 1: Johnson on target as Black Cats end pre-season campaign with victory
Adam Johnson scored the only goal as Sunderland closed their pre-season campaign with a 1-0 win over FC Midtjylland in Denmark on Wednesday night.
Marco Larsen brought an early save from Keiren Westwood but it took Johnson just six minutes to give the Black Cats the lead.
The former Manchester City man gathered a pass from Jozy Altidore and fired past goalkeeper Jonas Lossl from the edge of the box.
Frank Kristensen almost had the hosts level midway through the first half but Westwood did well to save his close-range header.
Emanuele Giaccherini brought a save from Lossl as half time approached but Pione Sisto almost had the hosts ahead just after the break as Westwood was forced into a low save.
A host of substitutions followed with Midtjylland changing their entire XI but it was Stephane Sessegnon who came closest to scoring again as he hit the bar with seven minutes remaining.
The Republic of Ireland international is on the verge of completing a transfer to Owen Coyle's side after the Black Cats accepted an undisclosed offer on Wednesday morning
Sunderland have accepted an undisclosed bid from Wigan for James McClean, Goal understands.
The Republic of Ireland midfielder made 36 Premier League appearances for the Black Cats last season, but reports on Wednesday have suggested that he is at the DW Stadium to finalise a move to the Championship side.
McClean, who was booed by his own supporters after refusing to wear a poppy on Remembrance Day in 2012, was left out of Sunderland's Barclays Asia Trophy match against Tottenham, and had to make do with a late substitute appearance in the final against Manchester City.
Manager Paolo Di Canio has brought in nine new players this summer as he aims to stamp his authority on the north east club.
The Italian took over from Martin O'Neill at the end of March and helped steer his side to Premier League safety thanks largely to wins against Newcastle and Everton.
But the former Swindon boss blasted certain members of his squad following defeat by Tottenham on the final day of the season.
Defender Phil Bardsley had been pictured laying on the floor of a casino covered in £50 notes in the build-up to the match, leading Di Canio to slam the "disgusting indicipline" shown by some of his squad.
Wigan started their Championship campaign with a 4-0 win at Barnsley on Saturday.
Sunderland target Lazio's prolific European goalscorer Libor Kozak
PAOLO DI CANIO wants to bring Lazio's Libor Kozak to Sunderland and is weighing up a £4m bid for the striker.
Di Canio has been busy this summer bringing nine new players into the club and the Italian is still on the lookout for more talent as he prepares to enter his first full season in charge.
Reports in Italy suggest the former Swindon Town manager is keen to make Kozak, who was the Europa League's top goalscorer last season, his 10th addition.
The Czech international is not in coach Vladimir Petkovic's first-team plans for the new campaign and he is willing to listen to offers for the 24-year-old.
ozak is also attracting interest from Turkish side Besiktas who have seen a loan bid rejected by Lazio president Claudio Lotito.
Lotito would like to seal the permanent departure of the striker and raise funds for a potential new recruit.
Though prolific in Lazio's European campaign last season, Kozak failed to net a single league goal for his club in 18 appearances.
The Sunderland manager is also hoping to balance the books at the club with the departure of winger James McClean to Wigan.
McClean is seen as surplus to requirements especially after the arrival of Juventus winger Emanuele Giaccherini for £8.6m.
The Republic of Ireland international will travel to Wigan today to hold talks with manager Owen Coyle over the move to the DW Stadium.
“The Sunderland manager is also hoping to balance the books at the club with the departure of winger James McClean to Wigan”
Sunderland Transfer News: £5 Million For Czech Striker Libor Kozak?
Sunderland are set to make an offer of £5.1 million for Lazio’s Libor Kozak to take the striker ahead of Turkish side Besiktas, according to Calcio News.
Kozak struggled to make an impact in Serie A last season, failing to score in 18 games and the player has been told he has no future at the Stadio Olimpico.
The 24-year-old striker has already been linked with the Black Cats this summer although interest faded with the arrival of Jozy Altidore.
However the rumours of Sunderland’s interest have again picked up with Danny Graham leaving on loan for Hull City but the Wearside club will have to contend with Besiktas, who also have a keen interest in the Czech Republic international.
The Black Eagles have already had a loan offer rejected by Biancocelesti, and with the club holding out for a permanent transfer, Sunderland aappear to be in a prime position to add to the player to their squad.
The Daily Star reports that Paolo Di Canio still wants to bring more firepower to his squad after only one of his strikers [Steven Fletcher] managed to score a single goal in the Premier League last season.
Kozak was prolific for Lazio in the Europa League, having scoring 10 goals in the clubs European campaign.
Sunderland Transfer News: James McClean To Be Sold To Wigan For £1.5 Million?
Sunderland are set to sell winger James McClean to relegated Wigan Athletic for a cut-price £1.5 million, according to the Mirror.
The Latics are hoping to beat fellow Championship sides Queens Park Rangers and Blackburn to the services of the speedy midfielder, who has been deemed surplus to requirements by manager Paolo Di Canio at the Stadium of Light.
Despite making an impressive start to his Black Cats career under ex-manager Martin O’Neill, McClean has since failed to live up to his form from his debut season at the club and Di Canio is wiling to let him go.
Wigan, who are hoping to bounce back into the Premier League after dropping into the Championship in May, and are also playing in the Europa League as winners of the FA Cup, hope to have completed a deal by the end of today.
McClean’s sale is part of a huge summer overhaul of the North East club by Di Canio, who has made no fewer than nine signings so far.
Emanuele Giaccherini, El-Hadji Ba, Jozy Altidore, Vito Mannone, David Moberg Karlsson, Modibo Diakité, Cabral, Valentin Roberge and Duncan Watmore have all joined Sunderland in recent months, while Simon Mignolet was sold to Liverpool.
PROMISING Sunderland youngster Louis Laing is facing another spell on the sidelines after suffering an ankle injury, writes CHRIS YOUNG.
Laing sustained the problem during the Under-21s’ pre-season tour of Germany and Holland last week, with the initial diagnosis not thought to have been encouraging.
It is another injury setback for the 20-year-old after spending seven months on the sidelines last season with foot and knee problems.
Laing (pictured) has long been recognised as one of the best prospects from the club’s academy and impressed for the first-team under Steve Bruce in the 2011 pre-season.
But since then, the centre-half has struggled to fulfil his potential, although he did get a taste of the Football League when making 11 appearances for Wycombe during the tail end of the 2011-12 League One campaign.
Laing was taken to South Korea by Martin O’Neill last summer for Sunderland’s pre-season tour, but never got a sniff of first-team action under the former Black Cats boss.
And after seeing last season derailed by the injury, Laing had hoped to go back out on loan this season, with several League One sides interested in the defender.
PAOLO Di Canio wants the heartbeat of his new Sunderland side to be English.
The head coach has spent the summer bringing foreign recruits into the Stadium of Light.
But last night he told the Gazette that a ball-playing English central-midfielder – around which his remodelled side would revolve – was absolutely key to his plans.
And while he still wants to strengthen his options at full-back, maybe even bring in a winger, the acquisition of that key player in the middle of the park is his absolute top priority.
“The club is working on the two full-backs, but more important to me is the need to get a key player in central midfield – someone who’s English,” he said.
“He needs to be English, with a physical presence because we have analysed that that is a need we have.
“English, because he needs to know English football inside out.
“And also a player with very good quality – because we want to play attractive football which gets good results.”
That sort of player sounds very much like Tottenham Hotspur’s Tom Huddlestone, pictured, who the Gazette exclusively revealed in June, was a player Sunderland had made serious inquiries for.
The Black Cats have kept tabs on the England international throughout the summer, and he remains very much at the top of the list.
But with no breakthrough having been made, the club is also scouting other possible signings who could fulfil that role.
Di Canio says though the success of that pursuit lies is firmly in the hands of the club’s newly appointed Director of Football Roberto De Fanti and chief scout Valentino Angeloni, rather than his own.
“I hope it can be done,” the head coach said. “I know they are working to make it happen.
“I hope it does, because as head coach I know the process of improvement – how to link the middle of the field with the back four, or the front four.
“Everyone can have their opinion.
“But to me it is clear that we need a real play-maker, with a real identity, and not just a player who can fill in, in that role.”
As well as working on players coming in, the club is working on players going out and Di Canio’s pursuit of the player he outlined above seems to underline that skipper Lee Cattermole no longer has a future at the club.
Cattermole is among a number of players who were told they could leave at the end of last season, but still remain on the books as things stand.
JAMES McClean has completed his switch from Sunderland to Wigan Athletic after signing a three-year deal.
The 24-year-old has joined the Championship outfit for an undisclosed fee, thought to be in the region of £2m.
Irish international McClean had an excellent start to his career on Wearside before his form tailed off last season.
He is happy to have joined Owen Coyle’s side after falling down the pecking order at the Stadium of Light.
“I’m delighted it’s all been completed, and I can say I’m a Wigan Athletic player,” he said.
“This is a fantastic club, and after speaking with the manager, I can’t wait to meet the rest of the team, start training and hopefully make my debut very soon with the aim of helping us get back to the Premier League.”
McClean joined Sunderland from Derry City in 2011 and was named the club’s Young Player of the Year in his first season with the Black Cats.
Last term, though, the winger was caught up in a number of controversies and found himself surplus to requirements under Paolo Di Canio this summer.
Sunderland boss Paolo Di Canio unhappy with display
PAOLO Di Canio saw his side win their last pre-season game before the start of the 2013-14 Premier League campaign next weekend but left Denmark fuming at what he saw as a poor attitude from his players.
The Black Cats emerged as 1-0 winners over FC Midtjylland – current leaders of the Danish superliga.
But he was angered by what he saw as a below-par approach to the match by his players and he left them in no doubt about his feeling in the post-match debriefing in Herning.
“I’m not happy,” he told the Gazette afterwards.
“I didn’t see the performance I wanted to see.
“We have 10 days to go and it is the last real game before the start of the season – I’m not happy because it was an important game for me.
“Every game is important of course, but I would have preferred to lose the game, and see a better attitude, and more improvement in our play, rather than win and take one step back from what we showed in Hong Kong.
“So I didn’t enjoy it.
“II know that when you are engaged in a process of building something, you can have one step forward and two back – or two forward and three back.
“But I expected a bit more.
“I didn’t enjoy watching my players play – not all of them, but a few of them.”
Di Canio referred to his disappointment with a ‘French speaking player’ as well as others, and that seemed to point the finger at Stephane Sessegnon, who had one of those somewhat anonymous and inconsistent games he occasionally produces.
It could also have been applied to though, to Valentin Roberge, or Cabral.
And the head coach continued: “I was disappointed with the attitude.
“The attitude is crucial.
“We can talk about tactics during the season or technical mistakes that can be improved by practice, but the attitude is the thing you don’t know.
“Some of my players are new, so I don’t know.
“I would not be arrogant enough to think I can discover their attitude in two hours of playing, but it can change for whatever reason.
“Yesterday was a big opportunity for all the players to show we are ready to start the season strong, but some of them failed to complete the mission.
“I have to make sure they change their mentality otherwise we will have a problem.”
Sunderland ace Keiren Westwood hopes to have staked his claim
KEIREN Westwood hopes he has put down a marker after keeping the only clean sheet of Sunderland’s short close-season programm
The Republic of Ireland international played every minute of the Black Cats’ 1-0 win over FC Midtjylland in Denmark last night, making several eye-catching stops in the process.
And his hope will be that he has done enough to get the nod for Sunderland’s season-opener against Fulham at the Stadium of Light next weekend.
Westwood had been expected to be Sunderland’s No1 keeper next season after the £11m sale of Simon Mignolet to Liverpool this summer. And even after Sunderland spent £2m purchasing Vito Mannone from Arsenal, Westwood’s place was regarded as secure.
But Di Canio’s reliance on his countryman in the Asia Trophy in Hong Kong – the Italian played 90 of the club’s 120 minutes football out there – has cast some doubts over that.
Westwood told the Gazette: “I just try to go out and give my best every time I play, and I have to be happy that I managed to keep a clean sheet.
“I had a few saves to make, and although it was important that we won the game, from my point of view the fact that we did not concede was a real bonus.
“I’m hoping I will be playing many more games next season.
“Like any professional footballer, you want to be playing games.
“And while I’m loathe to say my career took a backward step last season, the reality is that the amount I was involved last season was not enough for me.
“I want it to be different next season, and I’m delighted to have kept a clean sheet in our final pre-season game.
“But in the end it comes down to the manager who he chooses, and all I can do in that direction is do my very best week-in, week-out and hope it is enough.”
No major worries over duo, says Sunderland boss Paolo Di Canio
WES Brown and Ji Dong-won failed to make the trip to the club’s last pre-season game against FC Midtjylland last night after picking up injuries.
But Paolo Di Canio was quick to reassure fans after the game that he did not expect any serious problems.
Brown has been a revelation this summer since returning to full fitness and was one of Sunderland’s best performers in the recent Asia Trophy.
Ji meanwhile looked certain to be leaving the Stadium of Light this summer after attracting the interest of several Bundesliga clubs rumoured to be preparing big offers only for impressive work in pre-season training to catch the eye of Di Canio and suggest he has a future on Wearside.
Both would have loved to have been involved in last night’s game to underline their potential claims on a first-team place.
But with neither travelling, there was always likely to be heavy speculation – particularly given Brown’s poor injury record since moving to the North East.
But Di Canio told the Gazette: “Wes had a little problem and we decided not to risk him on the day.
“He has had a very good pre-season, which was a surprise for everyone, even him.
“We didn’t want to risk him because he’s an important player now.
“On the day of the game he was running again.
“ And today he can train harder because I want him to be available as soon as possible.
“It’s good for us that we have a player of his ability in our squad, and it is important to us that we have him able to play for us next season.
“As for Ji, he has been out for a few days, but we expect him to be back in training in the next few days.
“So at this moment in time, we do not have any real worries about either of them.”
Name:
Anonymous2013-08-09 16:30
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emmanuel, emmanuel
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(repeat)
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what ever will be will be
we`re going to Wemberly
que sera sera.
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Sunderland have accepted an offer from Wigan Athletic for Republic of Ireland international James McClean as manager Paolo Di Canio looks to raise funds before adding any more players to his squad.
Di Canio has signed eight new players in this window, but does intend to stop there, with a creative midfielder and a full-back on his wish list.
He may also look to replace McClean in his squad after a bid from Wigan - believed to be around £1.5m - was accepted on Wednesday.
Wigan began their mission to make an immediate return to the Premier League in style with a 4-0 win at Barnsley last weekend, but manager Owen Coyle feels McClean will add creativity and goals to his midfield in the Championship.
The 24 year-old was a huge hit under former Sunderland manager Martin O’Neill, who gave the former Derry City player his Premier League debut in his first game in charge against Blackburn Rovers in December 2011.
But after an excellent six months, McClean lost his way last season as defenders worked out how to stop his direct running game and he rapidly lost confidence as well as form.
The youngster, who elected to play for the Republic instead of Northern Ireland under the terms of the Good Friday agreement, has also been plagued by a series of social networking controversies and infuriated even Sunderland fans when he refused to wear a Remembrance Day Poppy on his shirt last November.
McClean is expected to discuss personal terms with Wigan in the next few days, although there has been interest from other clubs, including Celtic, Blackburn Rovers and Queens Park Rangers who may also bid for him now that is clear Di Canio wants to sell.
The 31-year-old is feeling confident going into the new season and has suggested that boss Paolo Di Canio has improved the squad's collective fitness levels during training
Carlos Cuellar is feeling confident going into the new campaign after Sunderland rounded off their pre-season duties with a win over Midtjylland on Wednesday.
Paolo Di Canio's side had previously enjoyed wins over Tottenham and Chiasso as well as the Danish side ahead of the new campaign and Cuellar has revealed that the Italian coach's strict approach to conditioning has been a key part of their preparations.
The 31-year-old played the entire match in Denmark and told the club's official website: "For me, I’m happy to play for 90 minutes and get the chance to play.
"Pre-season has been tough; we have done lots of work on our fitness and we have had games in Italy and Hong Kong.
"It was nice to be involved in Denmark, but overall it was good for the team to get the victory and to keep a clean sheet.
"We knew what to expect from FC Midtjylland as we’d done our homework and watched DVDs of their Superliga games.
"We went there wanting to win and get a result and we did it in good fashion by scoring a goal and keeping a clean sheet.
"It’s a great way to end pre-season, with a good result over a good team."
Sunderland finished 17th in the Premier League last season and will hope for much better this time around with Di Canio having brought nine new faces to the Stadium of Light.
They begin their league campaign at home to Fulham on August 17.
Carlos Cuellar has revealed his delight at being handed a chance to play in the pre-season game against FC Midtjylland.
Cuellar is eager to make an impression on manager Paolo Di Canio as he fights to earn a regular starting berth with the Premier League outfit ahead of the new campaign.
The Spaniard played the full 90 minutes in the victory over the high-flying Danish Superliga side in their final friendly before they host Fulham in their opening game of the season.
The 31-year-old believes that the strict attitude of his Italian manager and all the hard work during pre-season has paid dividends and will help the squad to be more competitive this year.
Cuellar said: "For me, I'm happy to play for 90 minutes and get the chance to play.
"Pre-season has been tough; we have done lots of work on our fitness and we have had games in Italy and Hong Kong.
"It was nice to be involved in Denmark, but overall it was good for the team to get the victory and to keep a clean sheet."
Ben Wilson: Cambridge United sign ex-Sunderland keeper
Cambridge United have signed former Sunderland goalkeeper Ben Wilson on non-contract terms.
The 21-year-old had been training with the U's this summer following his release by the Premier League Black Cats at the end of last campaign.
Wilson, who had loan spells at Gateshead and Chesterfield, also played in the U's pre-season friendly against St Neots Town.
He had spent 12 years with Sunderland, joining the club at the age of nine.
Sunderland new boy Emanuele Giaccherini could have been a Napoli player, says agent
THE agent of new Sunderland signing Emanuele Giaccherini admitted he tried to make his client sign for Serie A side Napoli before his move to England.
Paolo Di Canio made Giaccherini his major signing of summer thus far after sealing an £8.6m deal to bring the winger to the Stadium of Light.
However the player's agent Furio Valcareggi told an Italian radio station that the Giaccherini's career may have gone down another path if he had decided.
"I proposed Giaccherini to Napoli," he said.
"But [Sporting Director Riccardo] Bigon refused.
"All this dates back to before he signed for Juventus.
"Emanuele decided to go to Juventus and everything changed."
The 28-year-old signed a four-year-contact with the Wearsiders last month and has already impressed many of his new teammates.
Sunderland winger Adam Johnson believes the former Cesena midfielder has got all the attributes to succeed in the Premier League next season.
"He's everything you'd expect from that type of player, that's what he's like," Johnson told a regional newspaper.
"His technique is good, he can see a pass, he is clever like most Italian attackers.
"I think he is only going to get stronger as well when he plays a few games."
Wednesday evening saw Sunderland once again venture to foreign fields for a hastily arranged, final pre-season fixture in Denmark.
FC Midtjylland provided the opposition and proved to be a stern test for Paolo Di Canio’s men, which should have come as no surprise as the Herning-based side currently sit atop of the Danish Superliga having won all three of their opening fixtures.
However it was the new look Sunderland forward line that would make the first impact on the game with a fantastic, flowing move to open the scoring. A passage of play which started with Sebastian Larsson spreading the ball wide to Emanuele Giaccherini, who played a sublime ball onto the head of Stephane Sessegnon. The Benin man laid off a cushioned header to Jozy Altidore and with a deft back-heel the ball was at the feet of Adam Johnson who dispatched a mouth-watering curling effort into the back of the net.
The hosts rallied and put up a fight after going behind, and the game ebbed and flowed – however Johnson’s goal would prove to be the difference on the evening.
As is always the case with pre-season fixtures, it is the new faces which come under the most scrutiny from the fans and a number of Di Canio’s new recruits caught the eye.
Valentin Roberge looked assured and comfortable in the heart of defence, even having the audacity to break the mould of the usual central defender Black Cats fans have become accustomed to and actually playing the ball out from the back.
However it was Giaccherini - Sunderland’s marquee summer signing – who impressed the most.
It would appear that the hard work on the training ground is not over just yet for Sunderland
The former Juventus man looked fantastic, creating a number of chances, delivering a series of teasing crosses and playing a big part in the Sunderland goal. If the Italian can carry this form into the Premier League season he could be a really important and exciting addition to the Sunderland setup.
While fans may have been happy with what they saw against a side that is much further along in their preparation than the Black Cats, Di Canio was not as easily impressed.
In the manager’s post-match email, the Italian opened his correspondence with: ‘I am not very happy. I would rather have seen the team lose and turn in a good performance rather than win with a poor performance.’
While Di Canio’s stance is admirable, setting a high standard for what he expects from his side, it is hard to see such comments being replicated during the season if his side were to emerge 1-0 victors having played poorly.
‘Today has been a learning curve,’ Di Canio continued. ‘I have noticed certain things from certain players and watched their behaviour throughout the game. There are some positives, but overall I think there is still work to be done.’
With the season-opener against Fulham looming large it would appear that the hard work on the training ground is not over just yet for Sunderland.
FORMER Sunderland defender Anton Ferdinand has left QPR by mutual consent.
Ferdinand penned a three-year contract at Loftus Road after leaving Sunderland in the summer of 2011.
But the centre-half was sent out on loan to Bursaspor for the second half of last season, with the Turkish side reportedly keen to sign him permanently.
QPR have confirmed they have reached an agreement over the final year of Ferdinand’s contract and the 28-year-old is now a free agent.
James McClean admits: I wasn't enjoying my football at Sunderland.
James McClean says he left Premier League Sunderland for Championship Wigan because he 'wasn't enjoying my football' in the North-East.
The 24-year-old Irish winger stepped down a division earlier this week in a reported £1.5m transfer deal.
McClean joined the Black Cats in August 2011 and, although he made more than 30 appearances for the club last season, he feels the time was right to sign for the Latics.
He told The Shields Gazette: "I really do believe this is the right move for me.
"Obviously things had gone wrong for me at Sunderland. I'm fully aware that I made mistakes, and while I would also admit to losing my confidence, I certainly wasn't enjoying my football.
"I've already held my hand up admitting the mistakes I've made but I also believe I've learned from those experiences and moved on.
"The move to Wigan is the right one. The fact that Wigan won the FA Cup last season and now have the Europa League to look forward to was also a big factor for me as I want to play in Europe."
But he also accepted he will miss the Stadium of Light: "I had many good times and played with some fantastic players.
"I've made many friends, particularly among the playing staff, and I will miss them.
"John O'Shea has always been a great friend to me and I will miss his guidance and advice.
"I have no problems with the club that gave me the chance to prove myself when playing at the top level.
"I realise I must put my head down (at Wigan) and work hard to establish myself and hopefully get into the first team.
"I believe I have something to offer and I'm keen to keep my place in the Ireland team but I must secure regular football if I'm to do that."
Hull and Sunderland battle it out for £5m Spurs midfielder Huddlestone
Hull City are hopeful of beating Sunderland to the signing of Tottenham midfielder Tom Huddlestone who has also attracted interest from Fulham.
Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas played the 26-year-old 29 times last season after a successful return from his latest injury but he is willing to sell the injury-plagued midfielder, who has another two years on his contract.
Martin Jol, who signed the midfielder seven years ago for Tottenham, had also reportedly been interested in the midfielder, while Cardiff City's interest seems to have faded.
Sunderland eye up move for Spurs star Tom Huddlestone
PAOLO Di Canio is set to revive his interest in Tottenham midfielder Tom Huddlestone after admitting his multi-national Sunderland need some English beef.
The Italian has revamped the Black Cats squad with 11 summer signings, the vast majority of whom have arrived from the continent with no experience of Premier League football.
But after watching Sunderland round off their pre-season programme with an unconvincing 1-0 win over FC Midtjylland in Denmark on Wednesday night, Di Canio revealed he’s looking closer to home for his next recruit.
“He needs to be English, with a physical presence because we have analysed that is what we’re missing,” said Di Canio.
“The club is working on two full-backs, but more important for me is the need to get a key player in central midfield – someone who needs to be English.
“English because he needs to know English football inside out and be a quality player because we want to play attractive football which gets good results.
“We need a real playmaker with real identity and not just a player who can fill in.
Hudd-line news: Tom HuddlestoneHudd-line news: Tom Huddlestone
“We need a real playmaker with real identity and not just a player who can fill in”
Di Canio
Di Canio’s words represent an astonishing snub to Sunderland club captain Lee Cattermole, who, on paper, fits the bill but is clearly off his manager’s radar.
Cattermole has yet to play a game for Di Canio, having been sidelined for the season when Martin O’Neill was sacked in March, and Fulham are favourites to sign him.
Instead, the Black Cats boss is likely to launch another bid to sign Huddlestone, having enquired about him early last month, only for the two clubs’ valuations of the player to be way apart.
If a deal cannot be done, Di Canio has a back-up list which includes Danny Guthrie of Reading.
Di Canio, meanwhile, is angry with some of his players after their display against FC Midtjylland, with Adam Johnson’s early winning goal a rare highlight.
He added: “That was not the performance I wanted to see.
“I would have preferred to lose and see a better attitude and improvement in our play, rather than win and take a step back from our play in Hong Kong.
“I didn’t enjoy it because I expected a bit more from some of my players.
“I have to make sure they change their mentality, otherwise we have a problem.”
McClean looks for new start at Wigan to keep World Cup dreams alive
Sunderland captain John O’Shea says Republic of Ireland team-mate James McClean had to quit the Wearside club to keep his World Cup ambitions alive.
Wigan Athletic boss Owen Coyle revealed that McClean took a pay cut this week to become the Championship promotion hopefuls’ 10th summer signing in a £2million deal.
Controversial and outspoken winger McClean, who joined Sunderland from Derry City two years ago, looked certain to be edged out at the Stadium of Light this season after Sunderland head coach Paolo Di Canio signed wingers Emanuele Giaccherini and David Moberg Karlsson in the close season.
And the 24-year-old Ireland international, in contention for a Wigan debut in Sunday’s Community Shield clash with Manchester United, took the decision to quit the Barclays Premier League to remain a part of Giovanni Trapattoni’s World Cup plans.
Ireland, who play Wales in Cardiff in a friendly this week, are competing with Sweden and Austria for runners-up spot behind Germany in their qualifying group and face all three countries in three of their four remaining games in September and October.
McClean was in Ireland’s Euro 2012 squad but has yet to cement a regular place in the qualifiers, as he competes with Aiden McGeady, Jon Walters, Simon Cox and Robbie Brady for a place on either flank.
And O’Shea said it was made clear to McClean by Di Canio that he would have to move elsewhere to gain regular action this season, and challenge for a starting place in Trapattoni’s side
The new Sunderland captain said: `Fingers crossed it’s a good move for both parties. Obviously the manager was saying to him that he wouldn’t get as much action as he hoped for here and James was thinking of Ireland, it is World Cup year but also of his own form with a club from his own career point of view.
`He’s gone to a very good club with a good manager. All the best to him, he’s a good lad. I’ll stay in touch with him because he’s a very bubbly character. He’ll certainly be a good asset to the Wigan dressing room.”
Former Ireland international Coyle has revealed that he has received no bids for McClean’s international team-mate James McCarthy, who is understood to be a target for Everton, Newcastle United and Sunderland.
The former Hamilton midfielder, who has become one of Trapattoni’s first choices in the Brazil 2014 campaign, started against Barnsley for the FA Cup holders last weekend and new Wigan boss Coyle is keen to keep hold of him.
But Coyle said: `The interest at the moment has only come from media. I am comfortable sitting here and saying we have had no inquiries or offers which may change with the nature of the transfer window and if it does we will deal with it.
`We have always been a club and won’t ever stand in players’ way and nothing will change in that respect. If something comes in we will take it on its merits but as it stands we have had no inquiries and long may that continue.’
SUNDERLAND have scored the first derby win of the season over Newcastle – in the house price league.
Homes close to Premier League football grounds have increased their value at double the rate of those across the country over the last decade, a report has found.
House prices in the postal districts of the 20 clubs kicking off the 2013/14 season have risen by £353 a week on average over the last 10 years, according to research by Halifax.
The report found that homes near the Stadium of Light cost an average of £91,611 – a rise of 97 per cent during the past decade compared to a national average of 68 per cent – putting it at joint sixth in the league table alongside Everton and Liverpool.
But the report also put rivals Newcastle United bottom of the house price table, being the only area where house prices have fallen between 2003 and 2013.
The average value of properties close to St James’s Park slid by 11 per cent to £135,251.
The average house price in the 20 Premier League stadium postal districts is £319,800, which is one-third higher than that across England and Wales of £240,300.
Craig McKinlay, mortgage director at Halifax, said: “The boost to property prices in these areas partly reflects the local regeneration that typically takes place alongside the building of modern sporting arenas, including improved transport links. There are, however, significant variations in home prices around the nation’s leading clubs, with some supporters needing to pay far more to live near the ground of their favourite team than others.”
Halifax based its findings on Land Registry and official earnings figures.
Reports: Sunderland Enter Negotiations For Czech Full Back
With the clock ticking down to the start of the new season, Sunderland could be about to finally seal a move for a full back.
If reports in Turkey are to be believed, Trabzonspor defender Ondřej Čelůstka could be about to solve half of Sunderland's long-standing full back problems.
It is claimed that Sunderland have entered into negotiations to sign the 24-year old Czech right back after he rejected a move to fellow-Super Lig side Antalyaspor, stating instead his desire to play in England:
Antalyaspor wanted me, but my goal is to play in England. For this reason, i did not accept the offer.
The teams you are talking about as being interested in me (Sunderland and Crystal Palace) are accurate. There could be tangible developments in the coming days.
Though the former Czech Republic Under-21 international is most at home on the right side, he is also comfortable across the whole back four and that versatility will certainly appeal to Sunderland given the dearth of full back options currently available.
Should the interest should prove genuine, then it is unlikely Trabzonspor will stand in the way of a deal. There are strict quotas on foreign players in Turkish football and most are finding themselves in a position where they need to cut back a little. No real suggestion of a likely fee has emerged yet, though.
Another name for you all to follow. You know, just in case you were getting bored.
Sunderland sign Ondrej Celustka on loan from Trabzonspor
Sunderland have signed defender Ondrej Celustka on loan from Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor on a season-long loan.
The 24-year-old has made 55 league appearances for his parent club, following spells at FC Tescoma Zlin, Slavia Prague and Palermo.
"Signing so many players from abroad with no Premier League experience is risky.
"If they can adjust to the rigours of the English winter then Sunderland could enjoy a successful season.
"The manager's temperament will be under the spotlight but there's no doubt this season will be an adventure."
BBC Newcastle's Nick Barnes
Celustka, who is principally a right-back, played 18 games for the Czech Republic Under-21 side but is yet to win full international honours.
He becomes the 10th new arrival on Wearside this summer.
Manager Paolo Di Canio had already added to the defensive ranks, bringing in Valentin Roberge and Modibo Diakite, while goalkeeper Vito Mannone, midfielders Cabral, Emanuele Giaccherini, David Moberg Karlsson and El-Hadji Ba, plus strikers Duncan Watmore and Jozy Altidore are the other new arrivals.
Right-back has been a problem position for Di Canio, with midfielder Craig Gardner filling the role during pre-season fixtures against Tottenham, Manchester City and FC Midtjylland.
However, Gardner is suspended for the opening match of the season, at home to Fulham on Saturday, while natural full-back Phil Bardsley has not featured for the Black Cats this summer.
Louis Saha: Former Sunderland striker retires on 35th birthday
Former France international striker Louis Saha has announced his retirement from professional football.
The much-travelled forward used his Twitter account to reveal the news, which came on his 35th birthday.
Saha played for Metz, Newcastle (on loan), Fulham, Manchester United, Everton, Spurs, Sunderland and Lazio.
"Want to thank all managers, all staff, all team-mates, all opponents and all fans for all the support and love towards me during my career," he said.
Saha enjoyed lengthy spells at Craven Cottage, Old Trafford and Goodison Park, joining Fulham in 2000 and scoring 64 goals in 144 games for the west London club, helping them to promotion to the Premier League.
He moved to Manchester United for £12.8m in January 2004 and spent four-and-a-half years with the Red Devils, scoring 42 goals in 124 appearances, before adding 35 goals in 115 games with Everton.
The 6ft striker, who also scored four times in 20 international appearances for France, had short stints at Spurs and Sunderland, and made the final transfer of his career in February with a move to Lazio.
"I'm a proud man but without you all I won't be myself now," he added. "Thanks for the challenges, thanks for the help, thanks for the memories and thanks for the passion."
Sunderland have taken their summer signings tally to 10 by capturing Ondrej Celustka on a season-long loan.
The 24-year-old Czech defender has moved to the Stadium of Light from Turkish side Trabzonspor.
Celustka started his career with FC Tescoma Zlin before moving to Slavia Prague, for whom he made 41 appearances.
A short spell with Palermo followed before he headed to Turkey, while he represented his country at the 2011 Under 21 European Championship.
Celustka is capable of playing at right back and at the heart of defence and is known for his engine, allowing for marauding runs down the line - something manager Paolo Di Canio is said to be keen on.
Premier League new boys Crystal Palace were also interested and Sunderland's new signing tweeted supporters on Monday afternoon: 'Thanks (for) your celebrate messages. I'm very happy.'
The 24-year-old full-back has become Paolo Di Canio's 10th summer acquisition, arriving at the Stadium of Light from Turkish club Trabzonspor for the 2013-14 campaign
Sunderland have confirmed the signing of defender Ondrej Celustka from Trabzonspor on a season-long loan deal.
The full-back has become Paolo Di Canio's 10th summer acquisition, joining the likes of Jozy Altidore, Emanuele Giaccherini, Vito Mannone and Cabral in an overhaul of the squad ahead of the 2013-14 season.
Celustka joined Trabzonspor from Slavia Prague in 2011, and spent a brief spell on loan at Serie A club Palermo in 2010.
The 24-year-old has been capped by the Czech Republic Under-21s several times, but is yet to make a senior appearance for his country.
Sunderland fail in audacious bid for Napoli wonderkid Insigne
The young Italian wants a new contract at Napoli, but that didn't stop Paolo having a try
Sunderland have failed in an audacious bid for Napoli wonderkid Lorenzo Insigne.
The young winger dazzled at this summer's Emirates Cup, netting against Arsenal, and the Italian starlet's agent Fabio Andreotti admitted that Paolo Di Canio had tried to lure him to Wearside with a bumper offer.
"The Sunderland rumour is true," said Andreotti, "but Lorenzo wants to stay here, even if it means earning less money.
"Renewing his contract? We just want what is fair. Napoli still haven't contacted us, we are waiting for them.
"We have clear ideas and he wants to stay. However, there have been clubs with enough courage to ask Napoli about his asking price."
Insigne is contracted to the Neapolitans until 2017 but having impressed in Serie A last season and on the international stage he is looking for improved financial terms at the San Paolo.
SUNDERLAND Under-18s concluded their pre-season programme by coming from behind to secure an entertaining 2-2 draw against Barnsley on Saturday.
Sunderland started well, with American striker Lyndon Gooch turning well before having his shot diverted for a corner. The same fate befell Martin Smith soon after, then a link between Smith and Tom Beadling saw the latter’s shot drift narrowly wide.
Smith then half-volleyed a Tom Robson centre just past the post.
On the half hour, Barnsley’s Nana drew a great save from Sunderland keeper James Talbot, and he gave the visitors a surprise lead soon after, ramming home a cutback from the left at the far post.
The opener was completely against the run of play, but, eight minutes later, Nana doubled the lead. The trialist, released by West Ham, set off with a run from near halfway to leave three defenders trailing in his wake before shooting low past Irish keeper Talbot.
But Sunderland grabbed a lifeline just before half-time with a bolt out of the blue from left-back Tom Robson. The defender let fly from fully 35 yards to rocket a low strike just inside the post, into the bottom corner.
Four minutes after the break, Beadling had a shot cleared off the line, but Sunderland deservedly levelled on the hour mark. Ethan Robson found Jordan Blincoe inside the box and the winger’s first-time shot under the advancing keeper found the net.
Sunderland were well in control for the rest of the game, pressing continually, but Barnsley worked hard to keep them at bay.
Academy director Ged McNamee said: “After conceding two sloppy goals, we came back to totally control the game. We should have finished better.”
Sunderland kick off the new Barclays U18 Premier League season with a trip to Chelsea this Saturday before hosting Manchester City on August 24.
SUNDERLAND: Talbot; Ledger, Colquhoun (Sukar 70). Beadling (Hesketh 70), T Robson; Greenwood, Smith, E Robson, Blincoe; Gooch, Stinson
Referee: Lindsey Robinson
H Former Sunderland keeper Ben Wilson was an unused sub as Cambridge United cruised to a 5-1 win over FC Halifax, who played the last 69 minutes with just nine men, in yesterday’s Skrill Conference Premier opener. Ex-Magpie Ryan Donaldson was among the scorers.
SUNDERLAND goalkeeper Keiren Westwood will start for the Republic of Ireland in Wednesday’s friendly against Wales.
Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni has confirmed that Westwood will win his 16th international cap after Millwall’s David Forde was ruled out following knee surgery.
The former Carlisle and Coventry stopper lost his place in the national team after he was unable to take the number one spot from Simon Mignolet at the Stadium of Light last season.
Westwood played just three times for the Black Cats in 2012-13, all in the League Cup, and saw Forde overtake him in the Irish pecking order.
But with the Millwall man facing a spell on the sidelines, Westwood now has a chance to stake his claim to keep the jersey for next month’s World Cup qualifiers against Sweden and Austria.
“Yes, I want to help his morale by giving him the opportunity to start this game,” said Trapattoni.
“I think it’s important that I show him we have confidence in him so as to help him recover his.
“Usually the number one plays every game and when he doesn’t he can lose a little confidence and maybe make some mistakes so it’s important to be calm but we know what he can do and it is good that he will have this opportunity to remind us.”
Following Mignolet’s departure to Liverpool this summer, Westwood was fully expected to be promoted to first choice goalkeeper on Wearside, though Paolo Di Canio’s decision to start new signing Vito Mannone in both games of the Barclays Asia Trophy cast some doubt over that.
But the Irishman did start in last week’s final pre-season friendly in Denmark, keeping a clean sheet in the 1-0 win over FC Midtjylland.
SUNDERLAND’S transfer spending has already reached almost £30million during the transfer window, the Echo has learned.
The Black Cats have been the most active Premier League outfit this summer after adding eight players to the first-team frame, as Paolo Di Canio remoulds the squad he inherited from Martin O’Neill.
But only two of those recruits have commanded significant transfer fees, with Jozy Altidore and Emanuele Giaccherini both costing in excess of £6m.
Sunderland landed Modibo Diakite, Valentin Roberge and Cabral on Bosmans, Vito Mannone and David Moberg Karlsson were each signed for less than £2m, while the club had to pay nominal compensation to Le Havre for out-of-contract midfielder El-Hadji Ba.
Yet the Echo understands that the total outlay from Sunderland’s recruitment drive is still approaching the £30m mark – from transfer fees, signing-on payments and agent costs.
A large chunk of that total was financed by the £11m sale of Simon Mignolet to Liverpool, while Sunderland also received £2m for Ahmed Elmohamady and then further boosted their bank balance last week with the departure of James McClean to Wigan.
But it is thought that Sunderland received just £1m from the sale of McClean, who made his Latics debut in yesterday’s Community Shield against Manchester United.
The figures are further evidence of the financial support provided by owner Ellis Short.
Even though the club’s income has been significantly boosted by the new television deal, Short has made funds available before Sunderland have finished offloading those surplus to requirements.
Sunderland’s spending is not finished either.
The Black Cats are on the verge of sealing a deal for Czech right-back Ondrej Celustka, while a left-back, winger and a creative midfielder remain on Di Canio’s wish-list, plus a new striker should one of the club’s existing frontmen leave the Stadium of Light.
England international Tom Huddlestone is Sunderland’s main target for the midfield role, but he won’t come cheap, with Tottenham placing a £5m asking price on the 26-year-old earlier this summer before the Black Cats broke off negotiations.
Sunderland are NOT reliant on further sales before making further purchases though.
That looked the case last week when Sunderland saw a season-long loan bid for Charis Mavrias rejected by Panathinaikos after McClean’s departure.
Sunderland still have several high earners who they are looking offload; the likes of Phil Bardsley, Lee Cattermole and David Vaughan.
But it is understood that the month-long delay since Sunderland last entered the market has been due to the club re-assessing their transfer targets, rather than waiting to remove players from the wage bill.
Cattermole and Bardsley injured in Sunderland win over Bolton
LEE CATTERMOLE and Phil Bardsley both limped off for Sunderland Under-21s in today’s 1-0 win over Bolton.
The duo, whose first-team future at the Stadium of Light continues to look bleak, were thwarted by first half injuries at the Academy of Light.
Cattermole, making his first appearance since returning to full fitness from the knee injury which hampered him for the second half of last season, picked up a knock just before the interval and failed to emerge after the break.
Then Bardsley suffered a blow to his right ankle after making a heavy tackle in first half stoppage time and was replaced.
Jordan Laidler scored the only goal of the game with 20 minutes to go when he converted Adam Mitchell’s cross to ensure a winning start to the campaign for Kevin Ball’s men.
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!"
O'Shea hails Di Canio's 'hands-on' approach at Sunderland
The ex-Manchester United defender details the 45-year-old's ability to bringing his squad of players together and explains how the Italian intends to change their playing style
John O'Shea has hailed Paolo Di Canio's "hands-on" approach to coaching Sunderland and is looking forward to the start of the new season.
The Italian took over from Martin O'Neill late last season and helped the Black Cats to retain their Premier League status before embarking on a vast revamp of his squad over the summer, with a host of new faces arriving at the Stadium of Light.
"He's been hands-on. He doesn't like to be called the manager, he's the coach," O'Shea told reporters. "He's involved in everything, even some of the strength sessions.
"He keeps himself in good nick and wants to make sure that, if the lads are struggling, they see him doing it. If he can do it, that's a good guideline. It's what he believes in and, you know, it's working.
"We went away to Italy for 11 or 12 days and then Hong Kong [in pre-season]. Italy was a beautiful location and beautiful weather – and I even got to enjoy a few scoops of ice cream.
"It was two training sessions in the morning and then plenty of rest and nice food. Then we'd go again late in the afternoon. We probably played less games than usual for pre-season but we worked that bit longer on shape, balance of play and different things."
Nine new faces have joined the club, with the possibility of more joining before the close of the transfer window, and O'Shea is relishing being part of the "revolution".
"When we came back in for pre-season the manager said: 'It's a revolution'. It definitely feels exciting, it's definitely something to look forward to," the veteran enthused.
"I think we'll have a better-balanced squad and better competition for places this season - and that's the key for the team to do better.
Of Di Canio's tactics, O'Shea explained: "We're wanting to play a lot more from the back. Hopefully there'll be a lot more for the fans to enjoy, a lot more fluid movement and interchanging between our wide players and our attacking talent."
"The manager's very ambitious, very hungry. I've seen his appetite for the training sessions and the preparation he puts in, and the detail he goes into.
"He wants to improve and he wants to go on and be one of the best managers around. He wants his team to follow that ambition. He's got passion and it's a good thing to see that passion."
Sunderland's gruelling pre-season fitness regime means they won't be fat Cats
Di Canio adamant that even if his rebuilt team cannot outplay the Prem's elite they will run further and harder than them
Paolo Di Canio is completing a £30million summer “revolution” at Sunderland - with a vow that his players will be the fittest in the land.
Skipper John O’Shea has lifted the lid on the Italian coach’s “intense” summer of changes and promised the Black Cats will be a revitalised force next season.
A whirlwind pre-season has given a first taste of the maverick boss’s methods - and bid to create a “new identity” for the Wearsiders founded on hard-work, intensity, discipline and a more flowing passing game.
Di Canio admits he is driven by the fear he’ll only get one big chance at proving himself as a Premier League boss.
He has already signed 10 new players, most recently Czech defender Ondrej Celustka, who has arrived on a season-long loan from Trabzonspor, this summer, and hopes there will be more to come - Spurs midfielder Tom Huddlestone is the main target.
Surrounded by all those arrivals, Di Canio is determined that next week’s big kick-off against Fulham will prove a new dawn.
The last two months have certainly woken up Sunderland’s players.
Pre-season has been a 9am to 6pm job for them, including a double fitness session in the mornings, before lunch and rest at the training ground or hotel, then a football-based session at 4pm.
It all started with one vow from Di Canio: “You will see the fittest Sunderland team that has ever been. That has to be the base for a footballer.”
Players have been speaking of their being in their best shape ever, but are also wondering when the intensity level will drop.
Di Canio and his close-knit backroom staff hold the theory that if Sunderland can’t match the top five for quality, they’ll give them a run for their money - especially late in matches - with their physical powers.
Diets have been strictly controlled, with players now joking about having pasta and tomato sauce for every meal.
Even the menu of a recent plane journey was changed to remove more luxurious items.
Throwing so many new nationalities together, with some players not speaking English, posed a problem.
So Di Canio decided to make all players “twin up” on the training trips to Italy, Hong Kong and Denmark.
Room keys are now allocated by the boss, so one British or Irish player is paired with a foreign star to help break down the language barrier, and English is the required language on the training pitch.
Di Canio hasn’t stood back and watched his stars sweat and toil - he has led many of the running sessions, and got stuck into strength sessions too... the idea is to inspire the players to go the extra mile when they see the manager, aged 45, setting the pace.
Indeed, the question being asked behind the scenes at Sunderland is when Di Canio will ease off the relentless pace of his reforms.
As well as needing a good rollicking - John O’Shea calls Di Canio’s raised voice as “like a flamethrower” compared to Sir Alex Ferguson’s legendary hairdryer - players will also need more gentle encouragement.
O’Shea said: “It’s been intense. When we came back in for pre-season, the manager said, 'It’s a revolution.' Two sessions in the morning, and then plenty of rest and good food. Then we go again late in the afternoon.
“Lads were coming and going. Signing, leaving. The new lads were quite determined to prove themselves, it’s like a fresh start for everyone.
“Di Canio is very ambitious, very hungry. I’ve seen his appetite for the training sessions and the work he puts in and the detail he works to. He’s intense but I’ve never met a manager who isn’t. He wants to make a mark on his team. He’s got that passion, you see it on the sidelines and team talks.
“He’s been hands on - he doesn’t like to be called the manager, does he? He’s the coach - involved in everything, even strength sessions! He keeps himself in good nick.”
There will also be a change of style this season.
O’Shea added: “We’re wanting to play a lot more from the back.
“There’s lots more for the fans to enjoy this season. More fluid movement and interchanging with the wide players and attacking talent we have. Lots more to enjoy.
“It’s been bubbling under at this club since I came [from Manchester United two years ago] but it could still happen and we’ll be doing all we can to make [a finish in the] top 10 a reality.
“The Premier League is so unforgiving. Teams are spending incredible money just to stay in the league, so to be in the top half you face lots of competition but we’re determined to do it - the manager especially.”
Click here for Stan Collymore's view on how Sunderland will do this season.
A typical pre-season day for a Sunderland player
8am: Get up.
9am: Drive to training.
9.30am: Breakfast in canteen. Porridge, fruit - no bacon sandwiches allowed.
10.30am: Double training session starts. Running work, interval training, spinning classes. All distances and speeds recorded by GPS monitors.
11.45am: Short break.
Noon: Gym for strength training, stretching, pilates.
West Ham & Sunderland In For Italian International Striker Fabio Quagliarella
West Ham are ready to compete with Sunderland for the signing of Juventus and Italy striker Fabio Quagliarella, according to the Sun.
The 29-year-old has had a long and successful career in Serie A with the likes of Sampdoria, Udinese and Napoli, and scored 13 goals last season for the Italian champions.
Quagliarella is now unlikely to feature as regularly for Antonio Conte’s side following the arrivals of Carlos Tevez and Fernando Llorente this summer, and may be allowed to leave the club for the right price.
Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio has used his knowledge of Italian football well in the transfer market this summer, and this may give him an edge in landing Quagliarella, as he looks to continue to bolster his squad to avoid a repeat of last season’s relegation battle.
West Ham have also prioritised attacking players this summer, and have continued to chase strikers even after securing their main target of Andy Carroll from Liverpool.
As well as a successful career in the Italian league, Quagliarella has six goals in 25 caps for the Italian national side, and his experience would make him a useful addition for most Premier League sides.
The Premier League kicks off on Saturday August 17, with Paolo Di Canio's much-changed Black Cats facing Dimitar Berbatov and co. of the Cottagers, and you could be there
To celebrate the start of the new 2013-14 Barclays Premier League season, Barclays has teamed up with Goal to thank football fans for their continued passion, loyalty and dedication with the chance for two lucky readers to win a pair of tickets to Sunderland v Fulham on Saturday August 17.
To be in with a chance of winning, simply send the correct answer for the following question to competitions@goal.com.
Which player did Sunderland sign this summer from Fulham's London rivals, Arsenal?
A) Ondrej Celustka
B) Emanuele Giaccherini
C) Vito Mannone
This competition is open to home fans only and closes on Wednesday August 14. The winner will be announced on the same day.
Colin Cooper takes in Sunderland and Middlesbrough matches as Pools search continues
COLIN Cooper has ran the rule over a host of Hartlepool United transfer targets in the past 24 hours.
The Pools boss was at the Academy of Light yesterday afternoon as Sunderland’s under-21s enjoyed a 1-0 win over Bolton Wanderers, a game which featured his former Middlesbrough team-mate and current Black Cats midfielder, Lee Cattermole.
Cooper was locked in discussion with Black Cats coach Kevin Ball after the game and it is thought young forwards Billy Knott, Duncan Watmore and Jordan Laidler – scorer of the only goal – could well be of interest.
And Cooper was again in the stands last night as Middlesbrough’s under-21s were beaten 3-1 by Leicester City at Pools’ Victoria Park.
The 46-year-old is keen to bring at least one striker to the Vic before the end of the month and has already stated that several North-East-based youngsters are on his radar.
Funds should be available following last week’s sale of Peter Hartley and, given that his side are yet to score in League Two, Cooper will be hoping for addition sooner rather than later.
Meanwhile, Pools reserves were beaten 3-0 at Rotherham United yesterday in their Central League opener.
The Millers took the lead shortly before half-time and added two more goals after the break.
Assistant manager Craig Hignett took charge of the side, which included senior defender Sam Collins, summer signing Nialle Rodney and trialist Michael Duckworth.
And Hignett reflected: “In the first half I thought we did okay and created a few chances, but didn’t take them.
“They managed to get their noses in front just before the break and I think we have to be disappointed with the second-half performance.
“We showed our naivety as a young side and were perhaps a little intimidated by some of the bigger, older players so it’s a learning curve for the players.
“They have to be learn to deal with that physical side of football but the second half today was a harsh lesson for them.”
You may be entertained at Sunderland with Paolo Di Canio at the helm, but avoiding relegation is just about all they can hope for at the moment.
With the Premier League season just one week away, 13 of our football pundits have put their heads together to give you a comprehensive set of predictions.
Each pundit predicted where each Premier League club will finish the season, with 20 points for the club predicted to finish 1st, down to 1 point for the club finishing bottom.
Verdict - Sunderland will finish 16th
Highest prediction: 9th, Lowest prediction: 19th
2013/14 Premier League final table predictions
Callum Farrell: 9th - Di Canio has managed to assemble a new team which should be good enough to stop the rot. Experienced internationals will steady Sunderland, and will see them get into the top half.
Alan Dawson: 10th - If Sir Alex Ferguson hasn’t copyrighted the ‘hairdryer treatment’ phrase then the press may soon end up labelling Sunderland’s players as the latest recipients. His transfers to date have been great.
Mathew Nash: 12th - I had my reservations about Sunderland under Paolo Di Canio - but they look like they have been whipped into shape this summer. That should be enough to steer them clear of what will likely be another tight relegation battle.
Nick Harris: 12th - Sunderland have made some excellent signings, and even with the unpredictable figure of Paolo Di Canio at the helm, they should enjoy a good season at the Stadium of Light.
Vincent Ralph: 12th - Everything about Paolo Di Canio suggests he will not let the Black Cats even flirt with relegation this season. His considerable efforts in the transfer market suggest the side will take time to gel, and yet quotes from the dressing room imply this already feels like a team.
Ian Bolland: 13th - Will start well, and will probably implode. Expecting plenty of Di Canio entertainment.
Dan Coombs: 14th - Sunderland have bought well and have an excellent frontline, but questions will remain defensively. Has enough been done to help out a back line which conceded six to Aston Villa ? Di Canio remains an unknown quantity, one that it is tough to place too much faith in at this point.
Vic Daniels: 14th - Di Canio will have his moments this season, but by and large the team will play for him. The club is going through a period of consolidation
Lewis Doe: 14th - Di Canio says there is every reason not to expect his side to be close to the bottom three this season and he’s right. Sunderland have backed him, and made nine signings this summer while the same number, who were entrenched in a relegation scrap last season, have been sent the other way.
Gareth McKnight: 16th - Huge amount of new players, it could take time for the new foreign faces to adjust to life in England. Similar to last term, I think Sunderland fans could be in for a long season.
Jenny Leigh: 18th - Di Canio will get them motivated, no doubt, and I expect them to work harder and fight for their lives, but without Mignolet and still lacking in quality throughout, I think it’ll be very difficult for the Black Cats to stay up.
Graham Morris: 18th - Sunderland, Sunderland, Sunderland. I just think there's an imbalance between a completely uninspiring club and a manager who's so fervent as Di Canio is. I fear there's trouble ahead, trouble by the name of relegation.
Jamie Allen: 19th - A strong transfer window and a decent start, and everything looks good. But a mid-season implosion triggers a fall into the championship. And Di Canio will be gone.
Sunderland fail in audacious bid for Napoli wonderkid Insigne
The young Italian wants a new contract at Napoli, but that didn't stop Paolo having a try
Sunderland have failed in an audacious bid for Napoli wonderkid Lorenzo Insigne.
The young winger dazzled at this summer's Emirates Cup, netting against Arsenal, and the Italian starlet's agent Fabio Andreotti admitted that Paolo Di Canio had tried to lure him to Wearside with a bumper offer earlier this summer.
"The Sunderland rumour is true," said Andreotti, "but Lorenzo wants to stay here, even if it means earning less money.
"Renewing his contract? We just want what is fair. Napoli still haven't contacted us, we are waiting for them.
"We have clear ideas and he wants to stay. However, there have been clubs with enough courage to ask Napoli about his asking price."
Insigne is contracted to the Neapolitans until 2017 but having impressed in Serie A last season and on the international stage he is looking for improved financial terms at the San Paolo.
Name:
Anonymous2013-08-14 8:24
Stop this nonsense, just:
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!"
Transfer news: Sunderland close on Valencia defender Aly Cissokho
Sky Sports understands Sunderland are closing in on the signing of Valencia defender Aly Cissokho.
The France international has been strongly linked with a switch to England for some time and he is now ready to take on a Premier League challenge.
Liverpool have been linked with a move for Cissokho, but it appears they have shelved their interest and switched their attentions to Guilherme Siqueira.
It leaves the way clear for the Wearside club with Black Cats boss Paolo Di Canio in the market for another left-back.
Valencia are thought to be open to the idea of selling Cissokho due to their financial problems, while Sunderland are hoping to land the former Lyon man on loan with a view to a permanent deal.
Sources close to the player claim personal terms have been agreed but the terms of the deal have yet to be decided.
However, Sunderland could face competition for Cissokho's signature with Turkish side Besiktas expressing an interest in the 25-year-old.
The ex-Manchester United defender details the 45-year-old's ability to bringing his squad of players together and explains how the Italian intends to change their playing style
John O'Shea has hailed Paolo Di Canio's "hands-on" approach to coaching Sunderland and is looking forward to the start of the new season.
The Italian took over from Martin O'Neill late last season and helped the Black Cats to retain their Premier League status before embarking on a vast revamp of his squad over the summer, with a host of new faces arriving at the Stadium of Light.
"He's been hands-on. He doesn't like to be called the manager, he's the coach," O'Shea told reporters. "He's involved in everything, even some of the strength sessions.
"He keeps himself in good nick and wants to make sure that, if the lads are struggling, they see him doing it. If he can do it, that's a good guideline. It's what he believes in and, you know, it's working.
PREMIER LEAGUE LATEST
"We went away to Italy for 11 or 12 days and then Hong Kong [in pre-season]. Italy was a beautiful location and beautiful weather – and I even got to enjoy a few scoops of ice cream.
"It was two training sessions in the morning and then plenty of rest and nice food. Then we'd go again late in the afternoon. We probably played less games than usual for pre-season but we worked that bit longer on shape, balance of play and different things."
Nine new faces have joined the club, with the possibility of more joining before the close of the transfer window, and O'Shea is relishing being part of the "revolution".
"When we came back in for pre-season the manager said: 'It's a revolution'. It definitely feels exciting, it's definitely something to look forward to," the veteran enthused.
"I think we'll have a better-balanced squad and better competition for places this season - and that's the key for the team to do better.
Of Di Canio's tactics, O'Shea explained: "We're wanting to play a lot more from the back. Hopefully there'll be a lot more for the fans to enjoy, a lot more fluid movement and interchanging between our wide players and our attacking talent."
"The manager's very ambitious, very hungry. I've seen his appetite for the training sessions and the preparation he puts in, and the detail he goes into.
"He wants to improve and he wants to go on and be one of the best managers around. He wants his team to follow that ambition. He's got passion and it's a good thing to see that passion."
Sunderland head coach Paolo Di Canio has failed in an audacious bid to sign highly rated young Napoli front man Lorenzo Insigne this summer, according to reports in the Daily Mirror.
The Italy international has been at Napoli throughout his whole career to date, making his debut for the Naples-based club four years ago.
And in the intervening period, the 22-year-old has gone on to establish himself as being one of the most promising and exciting marksmen in Serie A, after shining on loan at both Foggia and Pescara in recent seasons.
At the former, Insigne netted an impressive 19 goals in just 33 league outings, while at the latter the Italian found the back of the net on 18 occasions in only 37 league matches, meaning a return to his parent club for the 2012/13 campaign.
However, despite just five goals in Serie A for Napoli in 38 games, Insigne has shown glimpses of brilliance at times in Southern Italy, while the player also caught the eye with his displays at the recent Emirates Cup in north London when scoring a wonder goal against the hosts Arsenal.
But despite Sunderland registering interest in the Italian, Insigne’s agent has since confirmed that his client will not be moving to the Stadium of Light next season.
“The Sunderland rumour is true,” said Fabio Andreotti, “but Lorenzo wants to stay here, even if it means earning less money.”
Paolo Di Canio's revolution has seen 10 new players signed, a 'play from the back' philosophy, the backroom overhauled and tangible excitement on Wearside
Guardian writers' predicted position: 16th (NB: this is not necessarily Louise Taylor's prediction but the average of our writers' tips)
Last season's position: 17th
Odds to win the league: (via Oddschecker) 2,000-1
A Love Supreme, one of Sunderland's main fanzines, has had some fun producing a range of "PDC T-shirts" this summer. Chart toppers include "Paolo Di Canio – the Revolution starts here", "Who made Alan Pardew cry?" and, perhaps predictably, "The Godfather".
All come emblazoned with images of Sunderland's manager and buyers remain confident the Italian's far-reaching Wearside "revolution" – 10 new players signed so far, the backroom overhauled and, above all, the implementation of a whole new "play from the back" philosophy – will prove a success.
Considering they possess a near 50,000 capacity ground, attract frequent 40,000-plus crowds and boast a glorious, if distant, history as the "Team of all the talents" and "The Bank of England club", Sunderland should be doing more than indulging in an almost annual flirtation with relegation.
Shortly after succeeding Martin O'Neill last spring Di Canio pointed out that supporters were entitled to be "angry" as "in the past five years this club has spent big money". Unfortunately too many of owner Ellis Short's millions went on nondescript journeymen while the playing style under Steve Bruce and then O'Neill can be most politely described as amorphous. Tactics tended to be binary, two dimensional at best.
Possibly the most encouraging thing about Di Canio is that he sees himself as a coach and, after recording top marks while collecting his Uefa badges at Italy's Coverciano academy, does the bulk of his best work on the training ground. In contrast, coaching was something O'Neill, Bruce and, before him, Roy Keane all largely delegated.
This "broader brush" approach to management failed, among other things, to properly address the sometimes dysfunctional on-field relationship between those expensive former Sunderland strikers Darren Bent and Asamoah Gyan, but the difference now is that Di Canio sees his job as primarily about teaching. His role is to gel and hone the talent recruited by Roberto De Fanti, the club's new director of football, and Valentino Angeloni, the chief scout.
While De Fanti was previously an agent, Angeloni comes with a stellar pedigree having most recently been in charge of scouting at Internazionale and before that Udinese, aka the home of the so-called "Udinese" model whereby relative unknowns were recruited from lesser leagues and sold on for significant profits.
Not that this summer's Wearside revolution has come cheap. It has been estimated that, when signing on and agents' fees are included, the 10 arrivals have cost a collective £30m.
This has been offset by Simon Mignolet's sale to Liverpool. Although Keiren Westwood and Vito Mannone, newly acquired from Arsenal, are able deputies it is worth reflecting that Sunderland kick off the campaign without their best two performers last term: Mignolet and the left-back Danny Rose, who was on loan from Tottenham. Without that pair, a relegation almost certainly averted by Di Canio's dramatic installation would surely have been a formality.
The good news is that great things are expected from Emanuele Giaccherini, the Italy winger signed from Juventus, as well as the USA striker Jozy Altidore, newly arrived from AZ Alkmaar. A prolific scorer in the Netherlands, Altidore says he has evolved into a "different player" from the raw youngster who once struggled in the Premier League at Hull.
Cabral, the former Basel central midfielder, has impressed in pre-season but a playmaker possessing the sort of passing range capable of unlocking defences is required alongside him if the building from the back with overlapping full-backs blueprint is to pay dividends.
Lack of creativity and inventive movement – Sunderland have often been a very static team – has been a big problem but John O'Shea, the captain, has predicted there will be "a lot more for the fans to enjoy this season". Such pleasure is likely to be intensified if, and it remains a big if, Wes Brown – back after a knee injury that sidelined him for 18 months – can stay fit to imbue the defence with a touch of class.
Few teams are likely to be in better physical condition – Adam Johnson, the sometime England winger and, now, apparently fully paid up convert to his new manager's "fitness first" doctrine, is said to have lost a significant amount of weight and body fat. Yet received wisdom has it that Di Canio's intensity and autocratic disciplinary modus operandi may eventually see his squad rebel and revolt.
In reality the 45-year-old is rather more nuanced than the lazy caricatures – take your pick from: "swivel-eyed loon", "dictator", "mad", "unstable", "ticking time bomb" and "human hand grenade" – suggest. Granted PDC enjoys his share of am-dram moments – see the knee slide during Sunderland's 3-0 win at Newcastle – and knows precisely how to project that richly accented voice to maximum effect but judging from his press conferences at the end of last season he seemed far from crazy. The odds are that he may, on occasion, continue to criticise players but such outbursts will be carefully calibrated, premeditated and strictly rationed.
Clearly intelligent and assiduous to a workaholic degree, he reassuringly also has a sense of humour – a vital man-management tool. Di Canio is definitely a bit different from most peers but that is not necessarily a bad thing. When asked if he was obsessive, he replied: "No, not obsessive, obsessive is pathological, but perfectionist, conscientious."
If that was a smart answer – particularly from someone not speaking in his first language – his accounts of seeking help for former players at Swindon who could not cope with motorway driving and awareness that rich young men are not immune from panic attacks did not appear the observations of a swivel-eyed loon.
Lee Cattermole and Phil Bardsley – not to mention the departed Titus Bramble – might see things differently. But for a broken foot, Bardsley would be on his way out following coruscating public criticism from Di Canio after he was pictured celebrating Sunderland's escape from relegation by lying on a bed of £50 notes in a casino. Cattermole seems surplus to requirements and has been excluded from the first team squad this summer.
Given his well documented past misdemeanours it is hard to imagine that Cattermole, Sunderland's captain under Bruce and O'Neill, meets the standards of off-field professionalism now demanded and his likely exit prompts mixed feelings.
True, "Clattermole's" habit of lunging into unnecessary challenges before collecting a litany of bookings was disappointing – not to mention potentially bad for his already compromised knees – but the nagging suspicion was that the former Middlesbrough and Wigan midfielder is potentially a better player than even he believes. His passing and positioning are better than advertised. It would have been interesting to see what effect a few months of Di Canio's clever coaching and tough love had on him but keeping Cattermole probably represents too great a risk to dressing-room harmony.
So, too, does the arrival of so many new players from abroad but the pre-season ploys of making English speakers and non-English speakers share rooms and ensuring everyone mixed around meal tables is said to have accelerated bonding.
Possibly three more newbies – a left-back, a midfielder and a striker – could arrive and it is not out of the question that the skilful yet flaky Stéphane Sessègnon could depart before the music stops in September.
The coming months will tell how well De Fanti and Angeloni have performed – not to mention how good Di Canio really is – but while all revolutions take time and are rarely straightforward the sense of renewed hope and excitement on Wearside is tangible.
Maybe, just maybe, Sunderland are heading for a place in the sun.
Sunderland Transfer News: Aly Cissokho Close To Wearside Move
Sky Sports reports that French international Aly Cissokho is close to a move to the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland look favourites to land the left full-back on loan however, due to the Valencia’s financial issues, the club are keen to sell him on permanently. The deal is officially far from done as Sky sources have reported that only personal terms have been agreed, and the two clubs still have not reached an agreement.
Rumours have spread, for most of the summer, that the defender is likely to be heading to England, and it seems that it’s Sunderland who have made the first keys steps, to signing the player.
Black Cats boss Paolo Di Canio has been searching all summer for a qualified left-back and the Italian is now ready to accommodate the sprightly 25-year-old in his squad.
While Liverpool had been linked with a move for the defender, it appears they have lost interest and are now looking at the possibility of bringing Guilherme Siqueira to Anfield.
Turkish side Besiktas have also announced their interest in acquiring Cissokho.
Sunderland welcome Fulham to the Stadium of Light for the club’s first Premier League fixture of the new season on Saturday, where the versatile Jack Colback could be asked to fill in at left-back with last season’s first choice Danny Rose now back at his contracted club Tottenham Hotspur.
Newcastle fan charged with punching police horse after violent clashes following Sunderland derby match
Barry Rogerson, 45, has been accused of violent disorder
A Newcastle United football fan has been charged with punching a police horse after violence broke out between fans after a derby match against Sunderland.
Magpies fan Barry Rogerson, from Hartlands in Bedlington, faces a charge of violent disorder after trouble in Newcastle city centre when Alan Pardew's side lost 0-3 to Sunderland in the Tyne-Wear derby at St James' Park in April.
The 45-year-old will appear before Newcastle Magistrates Court on September 9.
Rogerson was one of 30 fans arrested in connection with the disturbance on April 14 when wheelie bins were set alight and police were pelted with bottles and stones.
Sunderland boss Di Canio won't take any silly risks with Fletcher's recovery.
Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio is happy with Steven Fletcher's progress but will not rush the striker back into action.
Last season's top scorer for the Black Cats, Fletcher has not played since damaging ankle ligaments on Scotland duty in March.
Di Canio told www.safc.com: 'His improvement has surprised everybody. We are happy, but more importantly he is happy and excited.
'We don't have to (take a) risk. It would be silly to anticipate a time. We won't force it just because we see improvement, because another injury now could put him out for longer. It would be stupid.
'In a few weeks, maybe we can see Fletcher in action. We will keep our fingers crossed. He and the staff have done a very good job, we have handled the situation very well.
'We expect to see him in the next few weeks. I can't say two, three or four - we will see.'
Goodison Park and Stadium of Light sides scout young Elfsborg wide-man.
Everton and Sunderland are interested in signing highly-rated Elfsborg fullback Johan Larsson this summer, according to Dutch source Boerenmacht.
Quoting Sport Bladen the Swedish defender has attracted interest from teams all across Europe this summer, as Elfsborg look to cash in on their talented young defender. Premier League sides Everton and Sunderland have both registered their interest in Larsson, after having scouts watch him this past season, and are preparing a bid.
The 23-year old, capped at youth international level with the Swedish U21 side, has made over 100 appearances for Elfsborg in the Allsvenskan, and has become a hot commodity. Ditch sides PSV Eindhoven, AZ Alkmaar and FC Groningen have all watched Larsson in the past few months, along with Everton & Sunderland, who face a battle to sign the defender.
Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio is desperate to bring in another right back this summer, after seeing a deal to sign highly-rated Velez Sarsfield and Argentina right back Gino Peruzzi fall through last month due to a failed medical. Everton are also keen to bring in defensive reinforcements, following the retirement of versatile defender Phil Neville.
With a number of European clubs tracking his progress, parent club Elfsborg may be forced to sell the talented defender this summer if a large enough offer were to come in. Larsson has stated he is aware there is interest in him from foreign clubs, but is fully committed to Elfsborg at this stage in his career.
SUNDERLAND SEASON PREVIEW: Di Canio seeks quick answers from new squad to avoid another relegation scrap
Club at a glance
Premier League badges
Manager: Paolo Di Canio
Captain: John O’Shea
Stadium: Stadium of Light
Capacity: 49,000
Last season’s finish: 17th
Official club website: safc.com
Story of the summer…
Paolo Di Canio has been a busy man. After steering the club away from the drop last season, the Italian has had a chance to build his own squad this summer, bringing in 10 new players so far. But it will take time for the new players, and the new manager, to properly bed in.
Manager’s main challenge…
Avoiding the threat of relegation. Di Canio’s emergency appointment last season helped Sunderland stay up but he will not want to flirt with the drop zone again.
Hiccups on horizon…
Di Canio does not suffer fools, and his disciplinary regime is firm to say the least. But is it just a matter of time before his combustible nature causes problems?
First name on the team sheet…
Steven Fletcher – if fit, Sunderland need his goals.
Youngsters to watch...
Mikael Mandron Age: 18 Position: Forward
At 6ft 3in, the French-born forward provides a focal point up front, not unlike Andy Carroll. The 18-year-old, who was playing at Boulogne when Sunderland spotted him, qualifies to play for England or Scotland and was last season promoted to first team training after Steven Fletcher’s injury. He came off the bench for Premier League minutes against Aston Villa and Spurs.
Pre-season quote…
'We have a big name to protect, the dignity of this club and I heard that many of the local fans supported us because our players were very kind; they gave their time.
'They were professional, not behaving like fake stars – that made me proud and the club has to be proud too.
'We are a top club and an example for others.' - Paolo Di Canio
Top Tweeter
Craig Gardner - @CraigGards8 Sunderland’s serial prankster.
Ins: Modibo Diakite (Lazio, free), Duncan Watmore (Altrincham, undisclosed), Valentin Roberge (Maritimo, free), Cabral (Basle, free), David Moberg Karlsson (IFK Gothenburg, free), Vito Mannone (Arsenal, £2m), Jozy Altidore (AZ Alkmaar, £6m), El Hadji Ba (Le Havre, undisclosed), Emanuele Giaccherini (Juventus, £8.6m), Ondrej Celustka (Trabzonspor, loan)
Outs: Ahmed Elmohamady (Hull, £2m), Titus Bramble (released), Matthew Kilgallon (Blackburn, free), Ryan Noble (Burnley, free), Alfred N'Diaye (Eskisehirspor, loan), Danny Graham (Hull, loan)
New kit
Like the Stoke home strip, the only real change from last season is the order on the shirt in which the red and white stripes appear.
There are a couple of subtle differences though, mainly the slightly odd design of the V-neck and the addition of extra white to the sleeves.
It's a conservative approach from adidas which doesn't provide too many thrills but neither does it constitute a fashion disaster.
Price: £45
Stats from 2012-13 season...
Sunderland hit the woodwork just seven times in 2012-13, a joint low with Norwich and Wigan.
The Black Cats made more blocks than any other PL side this term (170).
Sunderland saw a league-high six opposition players red carded in 2012-13.
Stephane Sessegnon won a joint-high 89 fouls in 2012-13.
Craig Gardner was one of just four players to be booked 10 times in the PL in 2012-13.
Sunderland scored just two headed goals – a league-low.
After not receiving a red card in 31 games under Martin O’Neill in 2012-13, Sunderland saw three players sent off in seven games under Paolo Di Canio.
Where do I buy tickets and how much do they cost?
Tickets can be bought through the official website, via phone, 0871 911 1973 or at the stadium box office, which is open 9-5 Monday to Friday. Category A £32-£40, Category B £27-£35 and Category C £35-£30
Pre-season results
July 10 Italian Local Select XI - won 13-1
July 17 FC Chiasso - won 1-0
July 24 Tottenham (Hong Kong Stadium, Hong Kong - Barclays Asia Trophy) - won 3-1
July 27 Manchester City (Hong Kong Stadium, Hong Kong - Barclays Asia Trophy) - lost 0-1
August 7 FC Midtjylland (MCH Arena, Herning) - won 1-0