To say that Will Grigg’s career at Sunderland has been disastrous would be an understatement. The striker, who has been prolific elsewhere, has struggled for form, fitness and more importantly, goals.
Having been left out of the squad for the recent win at MK Dons, it looks like Grigg’s time at Sunderland could be up. Manager Phil Parkinson is looking at adding to his forward options and Grigg does not seem to fit into his plans.
Will Grigg’s Career at Sunderland Could be Over
Signed to replace the departing Josh Maja last January, supporters felt they had signed a proven and prolific striker for League One. With his track record, the loss of Maja’s goals would be replaced by Grigg. However, since his signing, which still could see Sunderland paying £4 million, Grigg has failed to deliver.
Parkinson Looking to Bring in Another Striker
Black Cats manager Phil Parkinson has made little secret of his hopes of adding to his forward options. Kyle Lafferty has already signed, however, Parkinson would like at least one more striker. Burton Albion striker Liam Boyce is believed to be Parkinson’s top target. The Northern Ireland international is out of contract this summer but can leave if a fee can be agreed. Boyce has 14 goals to his name so far this season.
Another striker on Parkinson’s radar is Bristol City’s Antoine Semenyo. The Sunderland manager admitted he was looking at the forward back in December. Should one, or both of these players end up at the Stadium of Light, Grigg could be on his way. A permanent deal may be unlikely but a loan deal could suit both player and club.
Interest from League One and Two for Grigg
Sunderland are understandably unwilling to loan Grigg to another League One club. His past scoring record in the division is excellent. Should Grigg hit form for a promotion rival, it would be move Sunderland would instantly regret. To rediscover his form, the former Wigan Athletic hitman may have to drop a division.
Football League newcomers Salford City have reportedly expressed an interest in a loan deal. The League Two side are willing to offer Sunderland £5,000 towards Grigg’s weekly wage. Swindon Town, also of League Two have also been linked. According to the Swindon Advertiser, the current League Two leaders are interested in a loan deal.
Goals Pre Sunderland and During
Will Grigg has been prolific during his career, especially in League One. Before signing for Sunderland, Grigg scored 95 league goals in League One. 64 of those goals came in his last three seasons in England’s third tier.
Grigg signed for Sunderland on transfer deadline day last January. The Black Cats were chasing promotion and hoped their new striker could fire them to the Championship. In 18 league appearances, Grigg scored four times. This season he has one league goal in 19 league appearances from either a starting position or coming on as a substitute.
Door not Shut but it is Shutting on Will Grigg’s Career on Wearside
The door is not completely shut on Will Grigg’s career at Sunderland. However, it won’t be long if he either fails on loan or fails to make his mark on Wearside this season. The Black Cats paid a substantial amount of money by League One standards to land Grigg a year ago. It is unlikely they would get their money back and unless there is a huge change in fortunes, Grigg will go down as an expensive mistake.
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