‘Could be a big player for Sunderland’ – Exclusive: Kevin Phillips tips club to sign 27-yr-old
Kevin Phillips has tipped Sunderland to sign Bailey Wright on a permanent basis this summer but admits a deal becomes more difficult if they remain in League One.
The former Stadium of Light striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Dylan Childs, claimed the 27-year-old could turn out to be “a big player” for Phil Parkinson’s side in years to come.
Wright joined the Black Cats on loan from Championship side Bristol City in January and made an immediate impact on Wearside.
In his five League One appearances he helped keep four clean sheets to boost the club’s promotion hopes going into the latter stages of the season.
However, the Australia international suffered an ankle injury during a 1-0 victory at Oxford United in mid-February.
When asked by Football Insider if the Black Cats should offer the centre-half a permanent contract this summer, Phillips said: “I watched him a couple of times live this season and he did really well.
“He picked up his injury in the Oxford game that I was at. He had been a stalwart in that position and a leader.
“It all depends what happens with Sunderland and whether he wants to play in League One.
“But Sunderland will certainly look to if they can. He could turn out to be a big player for them.
“All clubs from the Premier League to League Two will be shopping for free agents so that could be a good option and a safe option for them.”
Wright is out of contract at Bristol City at the end of June and would be available as a free agent from 1 July.
On Monday, League One club’s will vote on whether the current season should be curtailed with the Black Cats’ hopes of promotion relying on the season recommencing.
In other Sunderland news, Danny Mills has told Football Insider club should be allowed access to “50million slush fund”.