Robin Nicholls leaves Sunderland academy and calls role a privilege | OneFootball

Robin Nicholls has left his role as Sunderland’s academy manager, reflecting on a period he describes as a privilege.

He joined in October 2022 after work within Southampton’s academy set-up, overseeing the Academy of Light through a significant spell. He said in a LinkedIn post that the club’s meaning to its people and city made the chapter special.

During his tenure, academy graduates remained central to progress. Chris Rigg established himself with the first team, Tommy Watson struck a stoppage-time winner in last season’s Championship play-off final before moving to Brighton, and others advanced via the under-21s, loans and the senior pathway.

Results followed too. Under-21s boss Graeme Murty led sides to two finals in three seasons, and this season’s Premier League Cup final at the Stadium of Light ended in defeat to Burnley after the young Black Cats created enough chances to win.

Nicholls highlighted the pride, passion and community around the club, and the opportunity to support young players and staff. He viewed the academy’s role in helping to restore the club to the Premier League as a shared achievement, and expressed gratitude to colleagues while saying he was proud to have played a small part.

Source: Sunderland Echo