Could this be why Sunderland can beat the drop under Sam Allardyce?

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2 – January transfer dealings

When it comes down to the January transfer window, it is debatable that many big deals; if any, are done. It has become more the case that a struggling side have the opportunity to strengthen much needed weak areas in the squad. This is a measure that Allardyce decided to take and Sunderland will be in better shape because of it.

Sunderland’s key signings

Wahbi Khazri – Bordeaux

Jan Kirchoff – Bayern Munich

Lamine Kone – Lorient

Khazri and Kone proved their worth in the early Saturday kick-off when they picked up the two goals that all but ended Manchester United’s hunt for the top four. Khazri looked lively and has been the type of midfielder that Allardyce has been needing to link the midfield and the forward line.

Kone looks like a bargain, signed for just £5 million from French side FC Lorient. He is a no nonsense centre-half who seems to be starting a good partnership with John O’Shea in a new look back four.

Kirchoff was also on show but picked up an injury early on. He had a deflating debut in a 4-1 away loss at White Hart Lane, coming on as a substitute. Kirchoff deflected a shot in his own net and also gave away a penalty, appearing far from ready for the hustle and bustle of the Premier League. Allardyce has been pleased with his performances since then. He is now being used as a central midfield enforcer and looks much more comfortable there than he has within the back four.