…and it looks as though we may get one. 44% of you that voted said you felt a forward should be Keano’s priority this January. Here’s how the rest of the poll went…
With news coming through that Keano and Quinny have talked main target Anthony Stokes out of choosing Charlton and instead opting for Wearside, fans are certain to be delighted with the capture given their desire to see a top striker at the club.
When asked what position needed most strengthening this transfer window, a majority of 44% voted for a striker. Thanks to a lot of work behind the scenes by chairman Niall Quinn and his group of backers, you may have got your wish.
Here are the results in full:
What position needs strengthening most in January?
-Goalkeeper 5%
-Full Back 29%
-Centre Back 15%
-Centre Midfield 3%
-Winger 4%
-Forward 44%
29% voted for a full back, given that Stephen Wright is a long term absentee and that Keane has been forced to play Danny Collins and Lewin Nyatanga to limited effect at left back. However Dean Whitehead has done a sterling job since playing at right back and has settled well in the role, while Nyron Nosworthy adding capable back up.
Therefore while the poll did not specify, it can be taken that the majority of fans want that full back to be left footed, though the return of Clive Clarke may prompt Keane to give him another try.
And despite not having a recognised right winger since Liam Lawrence’s departure (although William Mocquet was on loan to Rochdale), Keane’s immediate capture of Carlos Edwards meant that he valued a winger as a priority signing more than the fans did, with only 4% voting for a winger. Stephen Elliot’s impressive performances on the right wing may well have been a factor.
5% wanted a goalkeeper and Keane has duly obliged, making Marton Fulop’s loan move a permanent one for £500,000.
Finally, only 3% voted for centre midfield, mainly because Sunderland have great strength in depth in that position, with Grant Leadbitter and Liam Miller occupying those roles superbly at the minute, and with Dwight Yorke, Dean Whitehead and the injured Graham Kavanagh waiting in the wings. The returning Spaniard Arnau Caldentey will also be hoping to stake a claim and add to his limited appearances so far.
**New Poll: Dwight Yorke – the verdict so far?** Vote now and have your say on the fans forum here. Register to win prizes for simply posting in the new Members League!**
