'Why can't we do it?': Tom Flanagan targets back-to-back promotions after committing to Sunderland

Tom Flanagan believes that there is no reason why Sunderland cannot target back-to-back promotions over the next two years.
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The centre back has put pen to paper on a new deal at the Stadium of Light and is now aiming high with the Black Cats.

Having spent large parts of his career in League One with MK Dons and Burton Albion, Flanagan is only too aware of the division’s success stories – with teams such as Bournemouth, Sheffield United and Huddersfield Town all rapidly rising from the third tier to the top flight.

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League One looks set to be a competitive division next season - with Portsmouth, Peterborough United, Fleetwood Town, Oxford United and the trio of teams relegated from the Championship all fancying their chances – but Sunderland will be among the pre-season favourites for promotion.

Tom Flanagan is targeting back-to-back promotions after signing a new contract at SunderlandTom Flanagan is targeting back-to-back promotions after signing a new contract at Sunderland
Tom Flanagan is targeting back-to-back promotions after signing a new contract at Sunderland

He told safc.com: "The ultimate goal – and people will think it’s crazy, but I’ve played in this league and seen people do it and watched people do it – is back-to-back promotions.

"If it starts rolling then it can keep on going. There’s a long list of clubs that have done it, so why can’t we do it?

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"People might be a bit afraid to say it allowed because someone will dig this up in two years’ time when it hasn’t happened, but if you don’t set yourself a big enough goal you’ll never reach anything.”

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