Sunderland AFC transfer news RECAP: Lee Johnson press conference plus Aiden McGeady rumour quashed
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First, Lee Johnson’s side must negotiate Wednesday’s first leg against the Imps at the LNER Stadium, where the Black Cats won 4-0 earlier in the campaign.
Around 10,000 supporters will then attend the second leg at the Stadium of Light on Saturday, as the Wearsiders look to secure their place in the Wembley final on May 29.
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Hide AdSunderland will also have to make several contract decisions over the next few weeks, with the majority of their squad set to become free agents.
With the summer transfer window set to reopen next month, talk of possible in and outgoings is starting to increase.
Johnson held his pre-match press conference earlier today ahead of the first game with Lincoln.
Here’s the latest SAFC news, analysis, rumours and more.
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Sunderland AFC transfer news RECAP (May 18)
Key Events
- Sunderland are preparing for the two legs of their play-off semi-final against Lincoln this week.
- The first leg will take place at the LNER Stadium on Wednesday (6pm kick-off).
- Lee Johnson held his pre-match press conference earlier today.
- Peterborough chairman Darragh MacAthony has responded to reports they are interested in Aiden McGeady.
Thanks for joining us today
We’re signing off for today but will be back bright and early tomorrow with all the latest SAFC news, analysis and more ahead of Wednesday’s big clash against Lincoln.
You can find more Black Cats content on the SAFC section of the Echo website.
See you soon.
A short-term coaching appointment
Lee Johnson has made a short-term appointment to his coaching staff for Sunderland’s play-off campaign.
ohnson’s assistant head coach Jamie McAllister has been served with a stadium ban for the next two fixtures as a result of the controversial off-field incidents in Sunderland’s 3-1 win over Oxford United on Good Friday.
He then has a touchline ban for a further three games beyond that.
Johnson has as a result turned to former Bristol City team-mate Jamie McCombe.
Read more HERE
Johnson on the fans
“I have felt the support of the people but it’s all from the media or from social media which I don’t do too much of.
“We strive to make people happy and our supporters are renowned for their passion.”
Johnson on injuries
“I will probably have a few sleepless nights about the bench because you don’t want to leave anyone out of the squad.
“There are a couple out and a couple back which I won’t share with you if that’s alright.”
Johnson on Kyril Louis-Drefus vision
“He hasn’t put any undue pressure on anybody because the play-offs can be a lottery, particularly a one-game final.
“We have 12 games to maximise the dream we all want.”
Johnson on being unbeaten against Lincoln
“I don’t think it’s too much of an advantage.
“I would say both teams have a clear identity. We have an identity and I think both teams will stick to that.”
Johnson on fans returning
“Some players can actually come alive with a crowd or with away fans. I’m still learning about this group and might have to find out in 45 minutes.”
Johnson on Lincoln
“We have to turn up in these two fixtures, we have had a good sight of Lincoln and know they can cause us problems and we can cause them problems.
“The motivation is that we have 12 days to realise our collective dream. We want to build this group and build on this group.”
