Sunderland are looking to make significant additions to the club ahead of their return to the Premier League
Regis Le Bris, manager of Sunderland, acknowledges the fans following victory and subsequent promotion to the Premier League
Regis Le Bris, manager of Sunderland, acknowledges the fans following victory and subsequent promotion to the Premier League
(Image: Getty Images)
Sunderland have hit a major snag in their reported bid to appoint Neil Cutler as their next goalkeeping coach.Cutler, who was previously on the coaching staff at Wolverhampton Wanderers, is currently on extended gardening leave following his departure from Molineux – a situation that could complicate any immediate appointment.
According to The Sun, Sunderland would have to either wait out his contractual leave period or offer a significant compensation package to bring him in now.
The development comes after Sunderland confirmed the departure of first-team goalkeeping coach Tom Weal, who joined League Two side Milton Keynes Dons in a new role.
Weal joined the Black Cats in February from Carlisle United, stepping into the vacancy left by Mike Dodds’ move to Wycombe Wanderers. Despite his short time on Wearside, Weal formed a strong bond with head coach Régis Le Bris and quickly became a trusted figure within the backroom team.
Working closely with Anthony Patterson and the club’s senior keepers, Weal contributed to a strong defensive finish to the 2024/25 campaign, helping Sunderland seal a dramatic promotion back to the Premier League via the play-offs.
In a statement, the club thanked Weal for his contribution and wished him well. Head of coaching Stuart English added: “After arriving following the departure of Mike Dodds, [Tom] formed an immediate connection with our coaching team and players.
"He played an important role throughout the remainder of the season, as the team achieved something truly special.”
Weal’s departure marks the first confirmed change to Le Bris’ staff since promotion was secured at Wembley, though further tweaks to the Premier League coaching set-up are expected in the coming weeks.
Cutler, 47, is widely regarded as one of the most respected goalkeeping coaches in English football, having previously worked with the likes of Aston Villa and West Bromwich Albion before his spell at Wolves.
However, Sunderland may now face a wait before they can get their man.