Sunderland AFC, like many clubs, has had its share of both successful and regrettable signings over the years. Here are some of Sunderland’s worst-ever signings, including those where significant sums of money were invested but failed to yield desired returns:
1. **Jack Rodwell (£10 million)**:
Jack Rodwell’s transfer from Manchester City to Sunderland in 2014 for a reported fee of £10 million was intended to bolster the midfield. However, plagued by injuries and inconsistency, Rodwell struggled to make an impact. Despite being one of the highest earners at the club, his time at Sunderland was marred by poor performances and limited appearances, leading to frustration among fans and management alike.
2. **Steven Fletcher (£8 million)**:
Signed from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2012 for a substantial fee of £8 million, Steven Fletcher was expected to provide Sunderland with a reliable goal-scoring threat. While he initially showed promise, scoring goals in his first season, injuries and loss of form hampered his subsequent seasons. Despite occasional flashes of brilliance, Fletcher failed to justify his hefty price tag and was eventually sold at a loss to Sheffield Wednesday.
3. **Dider Ndong (£13.6 million)**:
Dider Ndong’s transfer from Lorient in 2016 made him Sunderland’s record signing at the time, with the fee reported to be around £13.6 million. The Gabonese midfielder was brought in to bolster the midfield and add dynamism. However, his performances were inconsistent, and he struggled to adapt to the physicality and pace of the Premier League. Ndong’s attitude also came into question, and he was eventually loaned out before being released by mutual consent.
4. **Jozy Altidore (£6.75 million)**:
Jozy Altidore arrived at Sunderland in 2013 from AZ Alkmaar with high expectations, especially after a successful stint in the Dutch Eredivisie. However, Altidore struggled immensely to replicate his goal-scoring form in England. Despite his physical presence, he found it difficult to adapt to the Premier League’s intensity and defensive quality. His time at Sunderland was marked by a lack of goals and confidence, and he was eventually loaned out and sold at a loss to Toronto FC.
5. **Patrick van Aanholt (£1.5 million)**:
While not the most expensive signing in terms of transfer fee, Patrick van Aanholt’s departure from Sunderland to Crystal Palace in 2017 for £14 million highlighted a significant missed opportunity. Signed from Chelsea for a modest fee in 2014, van Aanholt showed promise as an attacking left-back but struggled defensively at times. His departure for a substantial profit underscored Sunderland’s inability to fully capitalize on his potential and maximize his value during his time at the club.
These signings illustrate the challenges Sunderland has faced in the transfer market, where significant investments have not always translated into success on the pitch. Factors such as injuries, lack of adaptation to the league, and managerial changes have often contributed to these signings not living up to expectations.
Despite these setbacks, Sunderland continues to strive for success, learning from past mistakes and focusing on building a sustainable squad capable of competing at their desired level. The club’s supporters remain hopeful that future transfer dealings will yield better outcomes and contribute positively to Sunderland’s ambitions in the footballing world.
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