Five loan signings to save Sunderland from relegation

Holly Thackeray | December 2, 2015

Allardyce on alert for loan acquisitions

It’s no secret that Sam Allardyce was drafted in to save Sunderland’s Premier League season, as the Northeast giants linger perilously just two points above the drop zone, after a stuttering start.

The winter window was always going to be a crucial time for the Black Cats, then, with Big Sam expected to work his wheeler-dealer magic and snap-up a few basement bargains.

However, Allardyce recently admitted that the Mackems would probably dip into the loan market rather than go on a festive season spending-spree, with the coach recently telling press: “I’d say we’ll be looking at loans, with the opportunity to buy. That gives us the chance to have a look at them.

“The reality is will someone come and face the fight?”

So, Coral writers have put our heads together to come up with five players up for a scrap Big Sam could snaffle to help save the season…

Joel Campbell

When injured Gunners return to action, chances will be few and far between for the forward, who now needs to put his future first. The versatile 23-year-old could do worse than a temporary stint at the Stadium of Light, where his skills would find a stage in need of a star.

Emmanuel Adebayor

Not technically a loan, since mercurial marksman Adebayor is now a free agent, but a six month contract could suit both parties.

The Black Cats (11/10 from Coral to stay up) need firepower and, despite his current predicament, Adebayor has previously proven he is worth a punt. On his day this former Arsenal, Manchester City, Tottenham and Real Madrid striker can be deadly, which is why he was given so many shots at those elite sides. To boot, Big Sam knows how to handle tricky characters.

Diego Poyet

Though, this midfield prodigy could be worth the risk. A regular starter for Championship club MK Dons, the Hammers would need good reason to pluck him away, but may be intrigued to see how their young-gun fares in the top-tier with a familiar face.

Callum McManaman

Currently out of favour with Tony Pulis, wideman McManaman still possesses the magic which saw him dazzle and unlock defences, but also frustrate, for Wigan Athletic.

With current club West Bromwich Albion believed to be looking for new attacking options in January, the writing could be on the wall for this Merseysider. Still only 24, he would be a coup for the Black Cats (7/2 to finish bottom), with a permanent deal for Andros Townsend seemingly off the table.

Peter Odemwingie

The well-travelled forward has already illustrated he can hit double figures in the Premier League and could cover a variety of positions for Big Sam. Just the type of player the Mackems manager likes to invigorate.

More fashionable options could include Leicester City sharpshooter Andrej Kramaric or Liverpool’s Divock Origi, though there could be much more attractive competition for the promising poaching pair.

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