O’Brien may exit in January after ‘surprising’ Sunderland news – Phillips
Kevin Phillips “is surprised” to hear Sunderland were ready to sanction a loan exit for Aiden O’Brien on deadline day.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the Stadium of Light legend is adamant the 27-year-old has a lot to offer Lee Johnson’s side this season.
As reported by the Sunderland Echo (September 1st), Doncaster Rovers missed out on a last-gasp deal for O’Brien after a paperwork error from the Black Cats.
It is said a loan agreement was reached prior to Tuesday’s deadline but the administrative error led to the paperwork being submitted to the EFL too late.
O’Brien has scored four goals in two EFL Cup fixtures this season, including a hat-trick against Blackpool in the second round.
The ex-Millwall forward has one year remaining on his contract on Wearside.
Phillips suggested a January exit is a distinct possibility.
“I am surprised to hear that, to be honest.” he told Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs.
“This season you want people in your squad who know where the back of the net is.
“There will be times where Ross Stewart is suspended or injured this season and in O’Brien you have a player who knows League One.
He scored a great hat-trick in the cup and he knows where the back of the net is. That’s why I’m surprised they would consider allowing him to leave on loan. He has that experience.
“Luckily it has not happened but perhaps there will be some movement in January. We will have to watch this space.”
In other news, Phillips shares ‘massive’ verdict after what he’s seen at Sunderland.