Simon Adingra faces likely Sunderland exit despite lively pre-season return | OneFootball

Simon Adingra’s Sunderland future remains unclear, and it feels likely he will depart before the summer window closes. With several options ahead of the 24-year-old on the left, keeping such a sizeable investment as a back-up makes little sporting or financial sense.

There was a time it looked to be clicking. His first Sunderland goal, a deft curler that put them ahead in a 1-1 draw with Leeds United between Christmas and new year, came with a bright, positive display. Sunderland paid upwards of £21 million for him after promotion back to the Premier League.

Instead, further muted outings followed and a January loan to AS Monaco was sealed, with Nilson Angulo drafted in. Adingra then travelled to a World Cup, where he played only a quarter of an hour. Pre-season has him in limbo and several scenarios still appear possible.

Another Leeds meeting provided a small reminder of his talent. In Harrison, New Jersey, Regis Le Bris’s side lost 1-0 in a low-stakes run-out, but Adingra had half an hour on the right, drifted into pockets and unsettled defenders. On another day he might even have fashioned a late assist.

Most encouraging was his attitude. Despite the likelihood of a move, he looks intent on applying himself fully and signalling to suitors. It may not have worked at Sunderland so far, but whoever lands Adingra could still be getting a serious talent.

Source: Sunderland Echo