Lee Johnson's response when asked about Charlie Wyke's Sunderland contract situation

Sunderland top scorer Charlie Wyke is one of several players out of contract this summer.
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Boss Lee Johnson was asked about the contract situation at Sunderland – and Wyke in particular – during an interview with Sky Sports and whether any negotiations over contract talks had been opened.

This is what the Sunderland head coach had to say:

Lee Johnson: “To be honest my role is to win games and try and coach the boys to the best of my ability. Of course, you’re involved in the big picture discussions but in terms of day-to-day detail and dealing with the agents, I’ve been slightly more removed at this club than I have been at other clubs. I think for all the players in mind, this is their vehicle at the moment.

Sunderland striker Charlie Wyke.Sunderland striker Charlie Wyke.
Sunderland striker Charlie Wyke.
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“This is an opportunity for them A) to get success. B) To earn a new contact at a fantastic club and C) If there’s no contract here then to go and maximise their opportunities elsewhere. I think the boys understand that, that there is new ownership and a pandemic to come out the back of but we are one of the clubs driving forward and there’s not that many at the moment.

“So you have to hope actually the boys are fighting to stay as well because they know if we were to get promoted then the first place you look is at home and the ones that have done extremely well to get you there,” he told Sky Sports.

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