This article is part of Football FanCast’s Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba’s haircuts to League Two relegation battles…
Sunderland continue to look dire under the management of Phil Parkinson, and despite fans teetering on outrage that he is still in charge, there seems to be little movement in regard to his position.
The match against Gillingham was a familiar tale as the Black Cats mustered just three shots on target before succumbing to a late defeat.
Nothing has changed since the reign of Jack Ross, and in fact, things have got worse. Why then, if his predecessor was deemed not good enough, has Parkinson remained in charge?
The answer could rely on finances. The club recently received £10m according to The Sunderland Echo (via The Sun) of investment but paying off both Parkinson and Ross would represent a significant outlay, as would bringing in a new manager.
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That could eat heavily into Stewart Donald’s resources, which is a massive concern given the additions that will have to be made to a lacklustre and underperforming squad in January.
As things stand there seems to be no thought given to Parkinson’s poor management and he looks set to remain in charge for the foreseeable future, yet he is taking the club backwards.
Sunderland Echo writer Phil Smith has suggested that the Black Cats’ manager still has the backing of his boss, Donald, but if he continues to fail even after reinforcements are brought in then his time must surely be up soon.
Trusting him to bring in his own playing personnel now seems like a massive gamble Sunderland can’t afford to make, as it could not only hinder them this season, but in years to come.
He has been trusted to bring in coaches to improve the players’ fitness and their understanding of his style, yet two wins in 12 games for a massive club in League One is diabolical, and hints that he won’t be able to turn things around.
Players caught eating fast food shows there is now a mentality issue in the squad, and Parkinson, therefore, has a lot to do right if he is ever going to sort out the mess and carry Sunderland forward.
