Luke O’Nien reacts to Sunderland contract decision as key dressing room figure gets one-year extension
Luke O’Nien has explained why goalkeeper Simon Moore remains such an important figure at Sunderland
Luke O’Nien has praised Simon Moore’s huge influence behind the scenes after Sunderland triggered a one-year contract extension for the experienced goalkeeper.
Moore has not been a regular starter since signing for Sunderland, but the 36-year-old has remained an important figure within Régis Le Bris’ squad and is valued highly inside the dressing room for his standards, experience and influence around the group.
Sunderland have now taken up the option to extend Moore’s stay by a further year, keeping the former Coventry City, Sheffield United and Cardiff City goalkeeper at the Stadium of Light as the Black Cats prepare for a Premier League and European campaign next season.
Asked about the importance of players such as Moore, O’Nien said: “There's always opportunities to contribute, whether you're in Europe or not, and look how important the boys and subs have been. And listen, Simon Moore didn’t play this season, and again, he's one of the most important cogs of this team, who steps up, delivers the culture, just connects the dots in the whole group.
“People don't see that, and you don't play, you're contributing. It's the reason why I've got Simon Moore's shirt in my locker this season, it's been there all season, and it's the reason why I try to improve and be more like him, because he's got us to where we are today.”
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Moore made a handful of appearances for Sunderland last season and has provided experienced cover in a goalkeeping department that has also included Robin Roefs, Melker Ellborg and Anthony Patterson. But O’Nien’s comments underline that Moore’s value is not judged purely on minutes. In a young squad that has grown quickly under Le Bris, his personality and professionalism have clearly carried real weight.
“Honestly, he's so good,” O’Nien added after Sunderland qualified for the Europa League against Chelsea at the Stadium of Light on the final day of the Premier League season. “I can't explain just what he does in a group, but he's top. He sent me a photo this morning of the anniversary of us celebrating; we had a lot of selfies that night.”