Sunderland’s Timur Tutierov joins Exeter on loan after standout U21s form | OneFootball

Sunderland winger Timur Tutierov has joined Exeter City on loan for the rest of the season, the club have confirmed.

The 20-year-old, highly rated on Wearside, has scored nine goals in 13 appearances for Graeme Murty’s U21s this term. The Ukrainian has also been named in Regis Le Bris’ first-team matchday squad for each of Sunderland’s four most recent Premier League fixtures, with Exeter currently 14th in the third tier.

Academy manager Robin Nicholls said the last six months have shown impressive progression and that this move offers a chance to test himself in a senior environment. He added that Exeter aim to compete at the top end this season and that he has confidence Tutierov can contribute, with Sunderland eager to see the development benefits.

Exeter boss Gary Caldwell said the club had tracked Tutierov, who trained with them in December to aid their assessment. He noted that Sil Swinkels’ return to Aston Villa created a loan slot and budget, and that Tutierov’s pace, directness and versatility across the front line address a need for more explosive threat.

Back in November, Murty praised Tutierov’s sharp movement and perfectionist streak, saying he can look unplayable when it comes together. He stressed the forward must embrace consistent effectiveness, judged by goals and assists, while recognising he remains very young with significant potential still to unlock.

Source: Sunderland Echo