The forgotten Sunderland man who delivered a timely message in Leeds United defeat | OneFootball

Simon Adingra offered a pointed reminder of his ability despite Sunderland’s 1-0 pre-season loss to Leeds United in Harrison, New Jersey.

Sunderland Echo notes that the Ivorian’s first Sunderland goal, a curled finish in a 1-1 draw with Leeds between Christmas and new year, came with a bright, assured display. Signed for upwards of £21 million after promotion, that outing was viewed by its chief writer as a possible breakthrough.

It did not stick. After more muted appearances, the 24-year-old departed on loan to AS Monaco in January and Sunderland brought in Nilson Angulo. He then went to a World Cup, featured for roughly a quarter of an hour, and returned to a pre-season still short on clarity.

What already feels relatively certain is a departure before the summer window shuts. With several players ahead of him on the left, keeping a major investment as third or fourth choice makes little sporting or financial sense.

Against Leeds in the United States he had around half an hour on the right, found threatening pockets and troubled the defence. On another day he might have supplied a late assist.

Most telling was his application. Even with his future seemingly elsewhere, he looks fully engaged, sending a clear message to suitors that, while it has not worked on Wearside, he could still be a serious talent.

Source: Sunderland Echo