Sunderland fans deliver Aiden McGeady contract decision after stunning campaign

As part of our Big SAFC Survey we asked supporters whether they would offer the experienced winger a new deal and 81.1% agreed he still had a lot to offer on Wearside.

Ahead of the second leg of the League One play-off semi final with Lincoln City it was revealed McGeady was just one starting appearance away from triggering an automatic one-year extension.

Sunderland were reluctant to activate that clause, given his earning status and the uncertainty over what division the club will play in next season.

McGeady agreed to waive the clause so he could feature and Sunderland have since offered him new terms, with the winger weighing up his future.

Head coach Lee Johnson has always said he hopes a deal can be agreed as McGeady remains a key part of his plans.

“There have been contractual conversations regarding his future,” said Johnson ahead of the Lincoln game.

"For me on the football side of it, I would love to keep Aiden McGeady next season because I think he is a fantastic player and we get on extremely well.

"But it's between him and the sporting director.

“All I can do is be really genuine and honest and sound with the player, deliver the information that’s given to me and prove to him that I want him to be an important part of our plans moving forward.”

After McGeady’s return to the Sunderland squad under Johnson, he quickly and firmly established himself as an integral player.

For his part, McGeady said in the aftermath of Sunderland’s 1-1 draw with Peterborough United in March that he hoped to stay at the club.

"Of course I do,” he said.

“I never wanted to leave Sunderland last January, I wanted to stay. That's why I didn't leave in the summer.

“I'm happy here and I want to be a part of the team that goes back up and then part of the team that maybe goes back up again - that's the dream, for everyone here.”

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Sunderland AFC coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription to our new sports-only package here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor