Kristjaan Speakman, Sunderland’s sporting director, has been praised for his successful summer signings, but there is one decision that may have backfired. The Black Cats enjoyed a productive end to the transfer window, bringing in four new players on deadline day. Manager Regis Le Bris has led the team to an impressive start in the Championship, with a current 2nd place standing after a recent victory over Middlesbrough.
One player who has been in the spotlight is Chris Rigg, who scored the winning goal and is now attracting interest from top clubs like Manchester United. Despite Rigg’s success, young winger Tom Watson has struggled to secure minutes on the pitch for Sunderland. He has been training with the first team and making the bench but has yet to make a Championship appearance.
Due to stiff competition for his position, including the impressive form of Romaine Mundle, Watson has found it difficult to break into the starting lineup. Le Bris acknowledges Watson’s potential and work ethic, urging him to stay patient and learn from his experiences.
However, a missed opportunity may have occurred when Brighton’s interest in Watson was rejected on deadline day. With limited playing time and strong competition for his position, a loan move to gain experience in lower leagues could have been beneficial for his development. The decision to keep him at Sunderland may be hindering his progress and causing concern for both the club and the player. Watson’s future at the club remains uncertain, with his development potentially at risk due to lack of game time.
