James Copley’s Sunderland notebook: Ghisolfi-Speakman contrasts, U21s friendly, academy change and non-league ties | OneFootball

Early impressions of Florent Ghisolfi, a low-key U21 friendly, the academy manager search and Sunderland’s standing in North East youth and non-league circles headline this notebook.

There is a different feel to Ghisolfi’s style compared with Kristjaan Speakman, who was central to the rise from League One to the Premier League. Those who have dealt with Ghisolfi describe a more direct communicator who offers clarity, with his stint in Italy thought to have shaped that approach. It is early days, but first impressions are positive.

Sunderland Echo understands that Sunderland U21s faced Wolves behind closed doors at the Academy of Light on Wednesday, a quiet run-out that ended 2-2 and was arranged to aid preparation for this month’s Premier League Cup final against Burnley.

There was no significant first-team involvement under Régis Le Bris, though Timur Tuterov featured after his Exeter City loan, with Milan Aleksic and Ahmed Abdullahi also involved. Trey Ogunsuyi was among the substitutes after spells at Falkirk and Shrewsbury Town and a return ahead of the summer break.

A key summer task is appointing a new academy manager, with Robin Nicholls set to depart for MLS after a successful spell. He is widely regarded as highly effective with young players, parents and agents, so his exit will be felt, though the broader academy reputation remains strong.

Sunderland are viewed by many as the region’s leading pathway for prospects, backed by facilities regarded as superior to Newcastle United and Middlesbrough. The club’s readiness to revisit contracts for improving youngsters, even by small amounts, is also noticed.

Links with the non-league scene remain robust. Hebburn Town took Dan Cameron, Isaac Allen and Jake Waters on loan, South Shields had Ollie Bainbridge, and Zak Johnson aided York City’s promotion, while friendlies and training access at the Academy of Light have further strengthened ties.

Source: Sunderland Echo