Sunderland supporters’ meeting reveals new head of grounds and Florent Ghisolfi's message | OneFootball

Sunderland fan groups met the club hierarchy in mid-May, with finances, a possible Stadium of Light expansion and facilities all on the agenda. The club has recruited a new head of grounds, with pitches to be improved to align with higher player expectations at the top end of Premier League standards.

According to Sunderland Echo, interim CEO Tom Burwell and director of football Florent Ghisolfi attended the Supporters’ Collective Meeting alongside other staff and fan representatives. Supporters also praised former sporting director Kristjaan Speakman’s contribution to the academy and player development.

Burwell said the academy sits under Ghisolfi’s remit and that the transition from Speakman had been anticipated and collaborative. He added that academy players must be ready for a top 10 Premier League level, the scouting team now numbers 10, and the club is recruiting a Head of the Academy.

Sunderland aim to compete with 19 other Premier League operations across security, events and engagement, with Burwell pushing high standards on and off the pitch. Before the first game of the season, Ghisolfi urged players to embody the club and give maximum effort each day, with representation and commitment prioritised over results.

After hearing from the club historian about Sunderland’s past pre-eminence, Ghisolfi believes the club can aim high again. Burwell is seeking a high performance culture across the organisation, built on heart and humility.

Source: Sunderland Echo