Lee Johnson says Sunderland have a top talent in their ranks who’ll probably have ‘big suitors’ after him

Add as preferred source on Google

Sunderland boss Lee Johnson has praised Black Cats winger Jack Diamond for his efforts and progress this season, as quoted by the Sunderland Echo.

The 21-year-old, who came through the Stadium of Light ranks, made his breakthrough this term after a successful loan stint at Harrogate last year.

Diamond has made 34 appearances for Sunderland at senior level, with 31 games under his belt this term including 23 in League One, and has registered two goals and four assists.

He was named in the Black Cats starting XI for the 3-1 win over Plymouth last weekend, and impressed during a lively first-half display.

Johnson praised Diamond for his display in that game, and revealed that he has given the youngster some advice in front of goal, tipping him to become more prolific in future.

“It was an important game, and it shows the trust we have in younger players like Jack Diamond,” Johnson told the Sunderland Echo.

“I thought Jack was excellent, in the first half particularly.

“I’ve been talking to him a lot about taking bigger touches and being more direct.

“When it actually falls for him in terms of that final ball or that finish, I think he’ll have a hot streak and he’ll probably end up with big, big suitors after him.”

Diamond recently penned a new contract which commits his future to Sunderland until the summer of 2024.

Up next for the Wearside outfit is Sunday’s League One meeting with Northampton at the Stadium of Light.