Jayden Stockley shows Sunderland what they’re missing with first Preston goal

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At the start of the month, Preston North End won the battle to sign Jayden Stockley from Exeter City. The striker had been in fine form for the League Two side and headed to Deepdale in a deal reported to be worth £750,000, according to the BBC.

It was certainly a loss for Sunderland, who The Mirror (02/01/19, pg 45) suggested were keen again this month.

The Black Cats had also been interested in the player in the summer, before eventually signing Charlie Wyke.

There had been rumours that Sunderland could reignite such interest in January. Those proved unfounded as Stockley, who was also wanted by MK Dons and Portsmouth, headed to the Championship.

Sunderland fans would, of course. loved another striker. The Black Cats are struggling to win games at the moment, with 11 draws the highest tally in League One. Adding some firepower could have helped them in that category.

At the weekend, Stockley reminded Sunderland just what they could have won. The frontman scored one and assisted another for Preston in their 4-1 win at QPR. It was his first meaningful contribution for his new club and showed what he might be able to do in the Championship.

With his tally now at 16 for the season and Wyke’s campaign so far hit by injury, perhaps Sunderland targeted the wrong man in the summer.