Sunderland manager Martin O’Neill has revealed that he is planning to strengthen his backline this summer.
The Black Cats have one of the better defensive records in the bottom half of the Premier League, having conceded 38 goals this term, only seven more than table topping Manchester United.
But, O’Neill could lose up to four of his defenders at the end of the season, with Matt Kilgallon and Titus Bramble’s contracts due to expire and Kader Magane and Danny Rose set to return to Al-Hilal and Tottenham respectively at the end of their loan deals.
As a result, the former Aston Villa boss says bringing in new defenders is a priority, highlighting the full-back position as a particular worry:
“Phil is the only recognised full-back we have at the football club and it’s something we have to look at in the summer,” he is quoted by Sky Sports.
“Ideally, we need competition for places but we also need players playing in their proper positions, and the positions that they feel most comfortable in.”
“Danny Rose has been here on loan and he has done really well when he has played, but still that is a position that we would have to look at in the summer.”
O’Neill went on to praise Craig Gardner for his performances as a make shift full-back during Bardsley’s absence:
“Craig Gardner has dropped back from midfield to play there while Phil has been out – and has done very well – but he’s not a specialist.”
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