Phillips: Sunderland could complete left-back deal after Ali Koiki talks update
Sunderland could bring in a left-back before the transfer window closes.
That is the view of Stadium of Light legend Kevin Phillips, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about Sunderland’s defensive options.
On 26 January, the Black Cats confirmed Denver Hume had left the club to join Portsmouth.
His exit means Dennis Cirkin is the only recognised left-back at the Stadium of Light, although Lynden Gooch can operate in that position.
According to the Sunderland Echo (28 January), the Black Cats have held talks over the signing of Northampton Town’s Ali Koiki.
When asked by Football Insider if he expected a left-back to come in, Phillips said: “I think it’s a position they’ll be looking at.
“They will not want to leave themselves short for the second half of the season.
“I know Gooch can play back there but he’s not a recognised left-back. You want two recognised players for every position really.
“I would imagine they’re trying to get someone in. They need to get somebody in who is going to be happy to be understudy to Cirkin.
“It would be a sensible move in my opinion. It would round off what has been a great window for Sunderland in terms of signings.”
Sunderland parted company with manager Lee Johnson yesterday (30 January) following a dismal 6-0 loss to Bolton Wanderers on Saturday.
Johnson and his assistant Jamie McAllister have departed after a two-year spell on Wearside.
In other news, a pundit is ‘surprised’ by Sunderland new signing after what he ‘can gather’.