Di Canio lines up striking reinforcements

As if two crucial victories, including a derby demolition of Newcastle United, weren’t enough, Sunderland fans were on the receiving end of further intoxicating news this week. According to the Chronicle Live, the club have been running the rule over Icelandic striker Alfred Finnbogason. The Heereveen striker has plundered 24 goals in the Eredivisie this season in just 28 matches.

Sunderland’s chief scout Pop Robson watched the 24 year old striker net the equaliser in a highly credible 1-1 away draw in the Amsterdam Arena last Friday evening. Finnbogason, who initially excelled in a loan spell at Swedish Champions Helsingborgs IF before joining Heerenveen last summer, has also attracted interest from Everton, Aston Villa and West Ham.

Di Canio has been widely praised for the manner in which he has restored self-confidence and desire within Sunderland’s attacking players in his early days at The Stadium of Light. In the weeks imminent to the departure of Martin O’Neill, the Black Cats looked forlorn and devoid of any self-assurance in the final third.

Stephane Sessegnon in particular has resembled a new player, scoring in each of the Italian’s 3 games in charge. With top scorer Fletcher set to return in pre-season and the potential addition of further striking options, fans of The Mackems may be set to witness a comparative deluge of goals next season. 

Michael Dobson

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