Interview: Wigan supporter gives his honest opinion of Sunderland managerial candidate Paul Cook

RR: So firstly, whats Paul Cooks style of management, is there a defined pattern to play or is he a gaffer who tends to mix it up?

GWC: Paul very rarely mixes it it up.

He’s played 4-2-3-1 almost every single game in the two and a half years he’s been here. He also likes a settled starting eleven which isn’t a bad thing, it’s something which has worked very well for us at times. Style wise it can be quite direct at times, which is one reason he was happy to let Grigg go - Paul definitely favours a big man up front.

RR: I see. It was noted amongst fans early doors when his name was initially mentioned that Cook not only won this division comfortably, but did so with the likes of the aforementioned Grigg and Power in his side - is he the key to getting our former Wigan men going?

GWC: I think he could be, but with both players he seemed to fall out of love with them a bit. Grigg especially seemed an odd one, Paul just really didn’t fancy him in the Championship - even in League One he used James Vaughan and Ivan Toney at times.

He definitely likes a physical presence up top.

Photo by Stephen Pond/Getty Images

RR: It seemed over the summer Wigan brought in some, on paper, very promising signings and from the outside looking in, it doesn't seem to have worked for a few just yet. Is he someone who generally spends well in transfer windows?

GWC: He has done since he’s been here. It’s not worked out with Lowe and Moore yet - with Moore he just isn’t getting the service, while Lowe is still adjusting to playing at this level for the first time. We can be very defensive away from home which hasn’t helped either player, but I understand why he takes that approach.

But, overall since he’s been here he’s done well with a small budget.

RR: So, overall, what do you think Cook could bring to the table as a Sunderland manager and the pressure cooker atmosphere we usually find ourselves in?

GWC: He’d bring a bit of stability I think. He knows what it takes to get out of League One and I think that would benefit your players a lot - Jack Ross didn’t have that. He’s used to pressure having managed Pompey, another big fish in a small pond.

RR: Finally, what would be the consensus amongst Wigan fans if Cook was to be appointed Sunderland’s new gaffer?

GWC: I think most Wigan fans would be disappointed to see him go.

He took over at a tough time and worked wonders, and last year staying up was the only aim. Some have wanted him gone since last year, mainly due to the poor away form, and some feel the style is a bit too direct. Personally I’m torn. I love the bloke and think he’s got what it takes, but part of me wonders if we’re at an expiration date so to speak.