Why Phil Parkinson deserves more time at Sunderland according to EFL pundit

Former Blackburn midfielder and EFL pundit Keith Andrews thinks it’s way too early for Sunderland to consider parting company with manager Phil Parkinson.
Phil Parkinson has won just two of his 11 games since taking charge of Sunderland.Phil Parkinson has won just two of his 11 games since taking charge of Sunderland.
Phil Parkinson has won just two of his 11 games since taking charge of Sunderland.

The new Black Cats boss has won just two of his 11 games since taking charge at the Stadium of Light, leading to more unrest on Wearside.

Sections of the home supporters could be heard chanting: ‘you’re getting sacked in the morning’ following Sunderland’s 2-1 defeat to Burton Albion last week.

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Yet Andrews doesn’t believe it’s time to make a change, less than two months after Parkinson replaced Jack Ross in the dugout.

When asked if it’s too early for Parkinson to get the sack, Andrews told Sky Sports’ EFL podcast: “Very early would be an understatement for me. I think it’s ridiculous. I can understand the fans’ frustrations who are watching it every week.

“He’s inherited a squad which in my opinion are not as good as what they were. Confidence is a big issue for the players, the expectations as we know playing for that football club are very, very high.”

Andrews also pointed out that Parkinson has been unfortunate with injuries, after losing striker Charlie Wyke to an ankle issue.

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The frontman has made just one appearance under Parkinson but is closing in on a first-team return which should provide a big boost.

“He hasn’t had a transfer window to stamp his authority on it in terms of the players he wants and Charlie Wyke has been missing,” added Andrews. “He coming back into the equation will make a big difference to the way they play.

“Lets not get away from it, Phil Parkinson plays a quite direct style and in recent weeks it’s been Will Grigg, (Benji) Kimpioka has played as well.

“We know it’s disappointing, I’m not painting a picture here where it’s been really good in previous weeks but can you realistically get rid of a manager that’s three points off the play-offs having come in and is still sussing out exactly what’s what.

“I do think it would be too premature.”