Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman has responded to Tony Mowbray claims that surfaced last summer.
Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman has responded to Tony Mowbray claims that surfaced last summer.
Sunderland fell to Luton Town in the play-off semi-finals after taking the Black Cats to sixth place in the Championship.
Despite the fact that many consider this to be a terrific season for a freshly promoted team, rumors circulated last summer that Sunderland were looking to replace their head coach.
Sunderland were extensively associated with up-and-coming Italian coach Francesco Farioli, with reputed transfer source Fabrizio Romano declaring at one time that a deal to replace Mowbray was at the top of Sunderland’s agenda.
However, the reports came and went without the club publicly commenting on Mowbray’s predicament. Speakman, along with other Sunderland figures, recently answered questions from the Red and White Army fan group on a number of topics.
Speakman was questioned on why Sunderland’s board did not publicly endorse Mowbray in the summer, as well as pledges about maintaining key players.
Sunderland’s sporting director noted at the meeting that rumours and speculation cannot influence the club’s actions and that they cannot always respond.
The Red and White Army group also questioned Speakman on Sunderland’s lack of expertise in some aspects of their playing staff.
Speakman answered by saying he is attempting to establish a balance between youth, value, and ensuring quality.
Q: why didn't board publicly support Mowbray in summer? What assurances about keeping hold of star players?
A: KS re Mowbray, we can't be dictated to by rumours and speculation. Can't always respond.— Red & White Army (@RedAndWhite2017) October 25, 2023
He also noted that Sunderland have a solid balance and that the club is continuously striving to improve.
Sunderland will play Norwich City in the Championship at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
Leave a Reply