Alan Browne recalls Alex Neil conversation ahead of Sunderland transfer plus what Regis Le Bris told him
Alan Browne has signed a three-year contract at Sunderland after leaving Preston North End.
New Sunderland signing Alan Browne says he spoke with former Black Cats boss Alex Neil before completing his move to Wearside.
The 29-year-old midfielder played under Neil at Preston, the club Browne left last month after over 10 years at Deepdale. The Republic of Ireland international has signed a three-year contract at Sunderland, where he’s ready for a new challenge.
“I did think about texting a few lads,” Browne told Sunderland’s website when asked if he’d spoken to any former Black Cats players. “The only person I spoke to was Alex Neil, who only spoke good things about the club. I do take his advice onboard, he’s someone I worked with for quite some time at Preston and I don’t think he’d point me in the wrong direction. He had a lot of good things to say about the club.”
Browne also had conversations with Sunderland’s sporting director Kristjaan Speakman and new head coach Regis Le Bris before opting to move to the Stadium of Light.
“I met the sporting director first,” Browne added. “He told me about the values of the club, the history of the club and what they’re ultimately trying to achieve and why they are bringing me here. That’s something I obviously want to be a part of.
“Then I spoke to the manager afterwards who shared his ideas with me and how he likes to play and approach games, his different styles and tactics. We talked through all that and it was something I believe in myself, the way he wants to play. It’s just something I’m looking forward to now.”
Asked about his targets ahead of the 2024/25 season, Browne replied: “For me personally it’s to settle in first. I’ve got to move my family up and it’s a big move for us in that regard. I need to get firing on the pitch because that’s obviously what you’re judged on and the most important thing. Obviously settling in with the lads and hopefully help them achieve success this year which is to get promoted to the Premier League.”