'Speaks volumes ' – Graeme Murty makes Robin Nicholls admission as Sunderland academy exit confirmed
The Sunderland coach has praised Robin Nicholls’ impact after his exit from the club was confirmed.
Graeme Murty has paid tribute to departing Sunderland academy figure Robin Nicholls and believes his move is further evidence of the strength of the club’s youth set-up.
Nicholls is set to leave the Academy of Light for a role in the MLS, becoming the latest member of Sunderland’s backroom structure to attract interest from elsewhere after a hugely encouraging period for the club’s youth department.
Sunderland’s under-21s were beaten by Burnley in the Premier League Cup final at the Stadium of Light at the end of their season, but Murty was keen to stress the wider progress made by players and staff during the run. Asked how much he had enjoyed working with Nicholls, in what was described as a vibrant atmosphere around the Academy of Light, Murty said: “The Academy has a brilliant staff. Everyone who seems to come in fits in seamlessly.
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“I think it speaks volumes for the people who are already there. The people who work so hard to make it a welcoming, nourishing and cherishing environment. And Robin was a massive part of that. So we have no doubt that our environment is brilliant for our young players, but it's also really good as a learning experience for our staff.
“So our staff have played a massive part in this journey for the players, and I think the more that we can collaborate as we have done for the good environment, is going to become far, far better, more empowering for our young players. And our staff, I think, can just go from strength to strength.”
Murty also suggested Nicholls’ move may not be the last time Sunderland academy staff attract attention from elsewhere, given the reputation the club continues to build. He added: “I don't think it's going to be the last time because I think we have a rich, rich environment here. We've got a rich history of creating good players, good coaches, and good staff. And I think the Academy has, rightly, a very, very strong reputation.”
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