Phillips: Sunderland could lose Neil next year after confirmed news
Sunderland could lose Dan Neil next summer despite the midfielder signing a new long-term contract.
That is the view of Black Cats legend Kevin Phillips, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the 19-year-old’s interview with club media on Thursday.
Neil revealed “there’s nowhere he’d rather be” than the Stadium of Light and hopes to help the club get “back to where it belongs”.
It comes after Sunderland confirmed the teenager had put pen on a four-year deal on Wearside.
The academy product has emerged as one of the brightest talents in the EFL this season.
In 18 appearances across all competitions, he has contributed two goals and six assists.
When asked by Football Insider for his assessment of Neil’s comments, Phillips said: “Look, it’s great to hear him say that but we know football.
“There are no certainties in football. If a big club came in with a bid in the summer the kid will probably want to go.
“It is great news that he has signed a new deal though. It means if he was to leave, the club could demand a bigger fee. Let’s hope that isn’t the case though because he is a vital player for Lee Johnson.”
Speaking after signing, Neil said: “Everyone knows that I love this football club and I love playing for it.
“I want to be part of getting this club back to where it belongs and there’s nowhere I would rather be, so I’m delighted to have extended my contract.”
In other news, Phillips has heaped praise on the coaching staff at Sunderland after a ‘huge’ Dajaku reveal.