Sbragia Given the Reigns at Sunderland: Is it the Right Decision?
Saturday, 27 December 08, 07:59 PM
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Ricky Sbragia, who has for the past four matches been caretaker manager of Sunderland since Roy Keane’s surprise exit, has been given
the full time job in charge of the Black Cats on an 18 month contract. Of course many will be wondering if after only four matches in charge Niall Quinn and the board have perhaps made their
decision too soon. Since taking over Sbragia has seen the Wearsiders gain 7 points out of a possible twelve, with two wins over Hull City and West Brom, a draw against Blackburn, and a last gasp
loss to champions Manchester United, in which despite a horrid performance they almost earned a point. However they are still in the thick of the relegation battle, only two points separating
them from 18th place Stoke City, and with only about half the season left Sunderland will have to minimize slip ups if they’re to stay away from the precarious cliff edge of
relegation. Sbragia’s takeover as caretaker manager seemed to spark the squad, and strengthened rumors that Roy Keane had treated his players harshly and that most despised him, and will give
more for Sbragia than the Irishman. Quinn and the board have come under harsh media scrutiny in some sects for giving the Scot the job after just four matches; but some may fail to realize that
Sbragia spent all of last year’s inaugural Premier League campaign as a first team coach, and would not need as much as an adjustment period as would someone like Avram Grant or Sam Allardyce,
that is to say completely new to the players and Sunderland. Ricky has a rapport with the first team and also presumably knows a good deal about the reserves and youth team set up at the Stadium
of Light. He may also utilize players often ignored by his predecessor, like David Healy and Andy Reid. Upcoming for Sunderland is a stern test at Goodison Park against Everton, and then an FA
Cup date at the Stadium of Light with fellow relegation candidates Bolton Wanderers. He will have to keep getting the best out of his players for these important fixtures, and also learn when to
attack teams for the three points and when to set up shop. Obviously an away win against Everton would be great, but going with a 3-4-3 to try and get the win would be foolish; a point would be
quite satisfactory to bring back to the Northeast. Time will tell if Sbragia is the man for Sunderland’s future, but for now at least he looks a good appointment who has revitalized the team and
can keep them up and perhaps higher in the table.
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wrestler313
Matawan, US
Analysis of Ricky Sbragia's appointment as manager of Sunderland, no longer on a caretaker basis
