Phil Bardsley has spoken about Regis Le Bris' impact on Wearside, discussed Sunderland's promotion chances and had nothing but good things to say about the loyal fans of the club he played almost 200 games for. Bardsley was speaking to SportsBoom.com.
THIRD SEASON IN CHAMPIONSHIP
“I think they’ve got a great chance of getting promoted, it would great if the club could get back in the Premier League. A couple of years ago they were close to getting promoted but they unfortunately lost to Luton in the Play-off semi-final over two legs, but they’ve been doing well for a few years now. They won promotion back to the Championship and have already had a good chance of going up again."
RECRUITMENT
“I’ve been really impressed with them, especially the recruitment side which I think has been really good. I think they’ve identified some good young talent and stuck with them."
RLB
“The new manager has come in this season, and no-one really knew much about him and what to expect because he’s not a well-renowned name. I can imagine a few eyebrows were raised when he did come in, but since he’s come in, he’s been phenomenal."
STYLE OF PLAY
“The style of football he plays is really pleasing on the eye, they look like they have that edge to them. I watched them at Preston not long ago and, even though they drew the game, they were on top, and they showed they have a bit of fight in them. They’re the sort of qualities you need to try and get out of that division, as well as obviously having decent players.”
FAN LOYALTY
“I had some great times at the club and also some tough times as well with different managers, but the fans always seemed to stick with me. That just goes to show that if you represent the shirt in the right way, you wear it with pride and you give everything you can week-in, week-out, then they’ll adore you."
SPECIAL CLUB, SPECIAL FANS
“They turn up in their number’s week-in, week-out, whether it’s Plymouth away or Watford at home, they’re special fans. It never ceases to amaze me how many fans they get. If any player ever gets the chance to play up there or for the club, then I think they’ll understand how special it is and how much the club means to the supporters in the city."
