Premier League Preview - Can Di Canio Get Sunderland Firing?

Sunderland fans have reason to feel optimistic about the season ahead. Paolo Di Canio starts his first full campaign in charge with a host of new signings which will introduce a more exciting style to a team that lacked goals last term.

Di Canio’s style of management may not be to everyone’s taste, but if it gets results, then the club’s decision to appoint him in March will prove to have been a good one. The Italian may upset a few people along the way but they’ll be no complaints from Sunderland fans if his revolution comes good.

The most notable summer arrival to the Stadium of Light is Emanuele Giaccherini from Juventus. The 28-year-old winger has been brought in to provide some more pace and style to Sunderland’s play and although Adam Johnson thrived under Di Canio’s stewardship, he needs someone with matching attacking flair, which is something that James McClean didn’t have last season.

Jozy Altidore has been signed from AZ Alkmaar and will most likely partner Steven Fletcher in attack, but if the Scot is injured, then Altidore will be comfortable up front on his own.

Sunderland have spent wisely in the transfer market and their new signings may prove the difference this season. Steven Fletcher will score consistently when he is fit and those goals will be instrumental to his team’s success.

Prediction: 16^th.

Thomas Baxter