Everything Alex Neil said about Jermain Defoe, Ross Stewart speculation, Nathan Broadhead and Alex Pritchard ahead of Gillingham test
and live on Freeview channel 276
The Black Cats boss spoke to the media this morning - and there was plenty on the agenda.
Nathan Broadhead and Alex Pritchard have returned to training following injury setbacks, while Neil was asked about Jermain Defoe’s retirement.
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RECAP: Alex Neil press conference
Key Events
- Sunderland will face relegation-threatened Gillingham at the Stadium of Light this weekend.
- Alex Neil will held his pre-match press conference earlier today.
- Sunderland are seventh in League One with seven games remaining.
- Alex Pritchard and Nathan Broadhead have returned to training following injury setbacks.
Kimpioka departs
We’ll start with some transfer news.
Benji Kimpioka has completed a permanent move to top-flight Swedish side AIK Fotboll.
The 22-year-old was out of contract this summer and with first-team opportunities limited, has moved to secure his longer-term future.
AIK have paid an undisclosed fee for the striker, who will link up with former Black Cat midfielder Seb Larsson.
Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman said the youngster would be missed at the club but added that the switch ‘was a good opportunity’.
“Benji has been unable to make an impact at first-team level due to incredibly strong competition for places and understandably he has a desire to play regular senior football, so this represents a good opportunity for him,” Speakman said.
“He’s a likeable young player who will be missed by his team-mates and club staff, but we wish him the very best in the next chapter of his career.”
Good Morning!
Hello and welcome to our live coverage of Alex Neil’s pre-match press conference.
The Black Cats are set to host Gillingham at the Stadium of Light this weekend, and we’ll bring you live updates as Neil speaks to the press.
There is bound to be plenty on the agenda, including injury updates and Jermain Defoe’s retirement.
Stick around and refresh the page for live updates.