Former Sunderland striker Darren Bent has discussed his old club’s summer transfer window business.
Sunderland’s ability to hold on to their key players during the summer transfer window should be viewed as a success - according to former Black Cats striker Darren Bent.
Just three new signings have been added to Regis Le Bris’ Europa League-bound squad after the Black Cats completed the signings of full-back duo Thomas Meunier and Dayaan Methalie and young midfielder Jules Ahoka. A whole host of players have departed - but interest in key figures such as influential captain Granit Xhaka and powerful striker Brian Brobbey has been fought off successfully.
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Bent warned Sunderland of the challenges they face this season as they balance domestic and European campaigns - but insisted holding on to their key men will aid their cause.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s home clash with Fulham, he told Sky Sports: “Last season, they were fantastic and what Regis Le Bris did with Sunderland was incredible. But you’re right, this season is going to be completely different because they’ve got European games and they’ve got a really hard run. They started with a defeat this season and even the recruitment, they haven’t managed to bring in the players they brought in last summer in terms of numbers. I think the most important thing was holding on to players because Granit Xhaka, he was linked with a move away and he was so key. Brian Brobbey also last season, he was being linked away this summer. They’ve managed to keep hold of these players.”
‘It’s a different test’
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Bent went on to praise Black Cats boss Le Bris for doing an ‘outstanding’ job since he was appointed at the Stadium of Light two years ago - but warned the Frenchman he is facing a ‘different test’ this season as he takes his side into European competition.
“It’s a bigger test for the manager, who doesn’t really have that much experience, certainly at the top, top level. He has been outstanding since he go to Sunderland. What he did last season was incredible. Now it’s a different test this season and he may almost have to learn on the job.”