Sunderland picked up a crucial Boxing Day win against Bradford City yesterday. It keeps the Black Cats in touch with top two Luton Town and Portsmouth, who are threatening to break away from the chasing pack.
Aiden McGeady’s goal was the difference but credit again has to go to Luke O’Nien, who is looking like a bargain find for Sunderland.
Snapped up from Wycombe Wanderers this summer for an undisclosed fee, whatever it was is now looking like an absolute bargain.
The 24-year-old struggled after he first joined the club. However, he has now become a regular in the Sunderland first-team and a player for all positions for manager Jack Ross.
Central midfield may be his preferred role but in recent games, he has covered at right-back due to Adam Matthews’ absence.
“I’ve played there in training, I’ve watched people play there, I thought yes was the right answer and I picked it up fast. I learn fast. I had Flans (Tom Flanagan) next to me and he helped me out so I was more than happy to play there.”
– Luke O’Nien on never playing right-back before
It is a role he had not played before but he clearly had the skillset for such a job and is currently proving himself worthy as a utility option.
Sunderland are going to need plenty of selfless players like O’Nien if they are to regain their Championship status. The former Watford talent is clearly proving his worth.