Dear Roker Report,
With the League One season in limbo I would be interested to know how you would like the campaign to be concluded:
• Played behind closed doors
• Null and void
• Split Division in 2-League 1 North and League 1 South
Also, could you give us an update on the sale of the club as we haven’t had any information for a while. Is SD in talks with anyone currently? Or have all talks been suspended for the time being?
Malachi Donnelly
Ed’s Note [Tom]: Hi Malachi, hope you’re well! The site had an interesting article on the topic not too long ago, but I think ultimately it’s going to boil down to money, unfortunately. I wouldn’t be surprised to see the lower blocks of the footballing pyramid decided by some kind of points per game algorithm. I don’t like the idea, but it gives resolution as is cheaper than alternative ideas on finishing the league, which many clubs want - especially if in the running for promotion. I can see the Premier League perhaps trying to finish behind closed doors whilst being televised - people would watch without a doubt and I’m sure there’d be some profit for the Premier League and Sky somewhere.
No update on the Sunderland situation, I’m afraid. I know just as much as anyone else. Wouldn’t be surprised if the Rona has dampened the situation, though.
Dear Roker Report,
Just like too say how true your comments are towards Sunderland afc. It seems that the club and some supporters have an acceptance of league one football. What has happened with this great club? We have become a club to be pitied. Especially since the Netflix documentary. I’m nearly 50 years old and we have certain supporters happy with were we are, Donald is a nice bloke but nice blokes don’t win anything. And how many more lies do we have to listen to? We need a leader. a structure, we are going downhill under Donald and all I can see is journeymen footballers coming through the door. I used to call players like Proctor, Waghorn, Whitley etc, they look world class to the shambles we have. Keep up the good work lads.
Steve Scott
Ed’s Note [Tom]: Hi Steve, thanks for writing in, I hope you’re well! The great thing about the site, in my opinion, is that there are a host of different opinions on all topics. Some of the writers have been critical of the ownership’s reign and agree with your points - some might also have a different take. But ultimately debate is healthy. I agree with your point about needing a leader and structure. We’ve felt quite rudderless for a while, so it will be interesting to see what Jim Rodwell brings to the club in that regard. I think this team lacks quality, but makes up for it in effort, which can be frustrating. Thanks for the letter!
Dear Roker Report,
Surely it is time big Prem clubs are stopped raiding lower league sides for talent, picking up potential superstars for peanuts. Sunderland have lost Greenword, Hugill, and more to big Prem clubs after putting time and money into these kids. Why not stay like Jordan Henderson did show some loyalty? But of course its money that counts. Even when we were in the Prem we could never compete for players with the big teams and now it is an unlevel playing field because we can not even keep our promising kids from the big teams turning their heads with big money offers. Having a top class academy is great but what’s the point if we not can bring youngsters through the first team because of poaching Prem teams? It is time the rules are changed give the lower league’s a chance to bring these kids through because nine times out of ten these kids just rot in top level youth sides and U23 team. Everyone take care.
Mark Wild
Ed’s Note [Tom]: Hi Mark, mate, hope you are safe and well! There're conflicting thoughts on this topic, and it’s difficult to really understand what’s truly going on. Some argue that the club can’t do anything to stop these bigger clubs offering more money and hoovering up our talented youngsters. Others argue that the club are actively allowing these players to be sold for cash. Personally, I don’t know what to think, but it would be great to have some clarity. Ultimately, I think if you look at our U18s and U23s poor records, and the likes of Robson, Embleton, and Mumba being unable to break into a first team that has struggled times, then you can see why players might have their heads turned.