One of Jack Ross’ first jobs when he took over at Sunderland last summer was to appoint his captain. When he appointed George Honeyman, eyebrows were raised. The local lad had become a regular the previous season as the Black Cats dropped out of the Championship.
However, few expected the midfielder to be made captain. Ross was sure he had picked the right man to lead his team on the pitch. One year on and Sunderland are still in League One and there are doubts amongst supporters whether Honeyman should retain the captain’s armband.
George Honeyman: Not the Captain Sunderland Need Next Season
Better Options for Captain
George Honeyman is not a bad player; he plays with a passion for his hometown club, just as any fan would expect. However, there are better options than the 24-year-old as captain and also in the number ten role he plays. Honeyman is not a natural leader and his positional play has been questioned.
Sunderland need to get back into the Championship at the second time of asking. It’s going to be tough and the Black Cats need a leader on the field who will rally the troops. From last season, Honeyman is not the captain Sunderland need next season.
Sunderland have several players who could lead the team. The obvious choice would have been Lee Cattermole. A natural leader who is aggressive, a constant talker, encourages teammates and an underrated player. He wears his heart on his sleeve which can lead to cards; however, he shows the passion that fans love. Sadly, the combative midfielder left the club on Monday.
Aiden McGeady led the team several times last season when others were not available. After beginning the season with an injury, he returned with a bang, scoring and creating many important goals. For many games, he was Sunderland’s main man and was a huge miss when not in the side. It was of little surprise when he was named Player of the Season.
Jon McLaughlin signed last summer and, after a disastrous time for goalkeepers the previous season, he was a calming presence. He made vital saves throughout the campaign and was one of the most consistent performers in the squad. He ran Aiden McGeady very close for the player of the year award. His experience, calming presence and the respect he has makes him another choice for captain.
Future Captain?
The Black Cats are desperate for promotion next season. They will need everyone doing their jobs to the best of their abilities. This includes the role of captain. In time, Honeyman could develop into captain material. He has the passion and love for the club required; however, this is not always enough to be a successful captain.
Should he learn and improve as both a player and captain, then he could have everything needed in future years. At this point, Honeyman is not the man to lead Sunderland back to the Championship and beyond. Manager Jack Ross could have a different view. It would be little surprise to see Honeyman lead the team at the start of the season. How the team fares could depend on how long he does so, however. No matter who leads the team, fans will give them all the support they can.
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