Sunderland’s rise since O’Neill’s arrival

During the 2011 summer transfer window, former manager Steve Bruce spent just over the £28 million mark building his desired team for the ongoing Premier League season. He brought in the likes of: Craig Gardner from Birmingham City for £6 million, John O’Shea from Manchester United for £5 million, James McClean from Irish outfit Derry City for £350,000, Ahmed Elmohamady from Egyptian side ENPPI for £2 million, Ji Dong-Won from Chinese team Chunnam Dragons for £2 million, Wes Brown from Man United for £1 million, Connor Wickham from Ipswich Town for £12 million. Bruce also managed to claim the following three signatures on free transfers: David Vaughan – previously at Blackpool, Sebastian Larsson – formerly at Birmingham and Keiren Westwood – ex Coventry City.

Even with the flurry of new signings, Bruce failed to establish his Sunderland side to a respectable position in the Premiership after some woeful results. The former Birmingham manager was eventually sacked on the 30th of November 2011 and was replaced by the reputable manager Martin O’Neill. Those following the football odds will remember this.

Since O’Neill arrived on the scene, things have certainly looked brighter for the north-east side. After a string of excellent results, including an impressive victory over Premier League giants Manchester City, the Black Cats reside in ninth position; a mere nine points behind their bitter rivals Newcastle United. People Gambling on football need to bear this in mind.

The £350,000 Irishman McClean has looked to be one of the most impressive signings Bruce made during the summer transfer window of 2011. The 22-year-old did not feature under the managerial reigns of Bruce, but since O’Neill’s arrival McClean has become a key player in his squad.

The Black Cat’s next matchup sees them face their previous opponents Arsenal in the Fifth Round of the FA Cup. The last time Sunderland faced up against the Gunners they endured a 1-2 home defeat after a stoppage time winner from legendary striker Thierry Henry. O’Neill will be looking for the victory in the Fifth Round to give the club every chance of winning a trophy this season