Questions from Sunderland forum

Ric said:
Been sent a few questions from SAFC World (<a class="postlink" href="http://www.safc-world.co.uk/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;">http://www.safc-world.co.uk/</a>). If you fancy responding please leave your answers below.

Cheers,
Ric

Have you noticed a change in the support you receive at home games since the club came into money? Have you noticed that fans from wider areas have began to support the club?

Not really.Noticed that we're no longer "everyone's favourite losers" with fans of other clubs,though.


What is the first game you remember seeing Manchester City play in?

City v Sheffield Wednesday,reserves at Maine rd with my Grandad,late 70's.We won 6-0 and I got an absolute bollocking off him for shouting "kill 'em City" after the 5th goal!


If there was one player you could take from the current Sunderland side to play for Manchester City, who would it be?

Steed Malbranque is still a quality player in my eyes.We were linked with him under Pearce and I really wanted him to sign for us.



Ex-Sunderland manager Peter Reid is thought of fondly by Sunderland fans after he took the club to their most successful Premier league finishes ever. What is your opinion on the former City player and manager?

Reid steadied the ship on and off the pitch after Kendall's head exploded and he walked out on us for Everton.He created a long ball attacking team based on boot up to Quinn,flick on to David White-Goal.It worked for a while,it wasn't pretty,but his premature sacking by (chairman) Swailes after a few poor performances was ridiculous.I have good memories of his time as a player and he gave his best for us as a manager.Very much "of his time" but far more positives than negatives.


Niall Quinn is a Sunderland and Man City legend also and is regarded probably more highly than any ever former Sunderland player. What is your opinion on the big man?

Gentleman,fantastic player,100% committed to the cause-a model professional.
Wish we had him now.Would be the perfect foil for Tevez and would score a hatful from Johnson's crosses.


Do you really think that you can challenge for the league title eventually, or do you perhaps feel that, like Real Madrid did years ago, just spending loads of money doesn't necessarily determine that the team will work well together?

I feel that we can at least challenge this year if things go well for us.Obviously we need time for some of our players to adapt to the PL and I still think we're a little light up front if (God forbid) Tevez get's injured.But who knows?Mancini is far from the "scarf wearing mug" that many in the media portray him as.


What are your hopes for your club this season, what is the minimum achievement you expect from Mancini?

I would like a top four finish and it would be nice to say we'll be in with a shout of winning a cup....but I'm realsitic and have watched football long enough to know that will depend on many things going our way.


What are your thoughts on Sunderland AFC?

Always had time for Sunderland-Good club, loud fans...I always remember the game at Maine rd when you went down 3-2...amazing atmosphere that day from your lot in Platt lane.Unlike fans of some other clubs I could mention,you don't tend to bang on about "history," which is always a good thing in my book.

What is your prediction for the game?

Assuming we can get through our game on Thursday unscathed,I think that we can win the game.Defensively we are much stronger than we were when we played you last season....but who knows?


What are your memories of past Sunderland Vs Manchester City games?

I will always remember you being one of the last visitors to Maine rd..when Mark Foe (rip) scored the last goal of any City player at our old ground.

Manchester City player Nedum Onuoha recently joined Sunderland on a season long loan, what can we expect from him?


Speed and commitment...and a nice fella.
Ned is one academy player I dearly hoped would make it with us but I honestly think he's 10% short of being top level.Fantastic pace but doesn't read the game quick enough and tends to "react" to situations in front of him rather than "respond."
Hope he does well for you guys though.
 
Have you noticed a change in the support you receive at home games since the club came into money? Have you noticed that fans from wider areas have began to support the club?
Not overly,more fans seem to be coming back in but that could be new fans or fans returning after the Pearce era, and will still don't sell out most games so I don't think that much has changed.

What is the first game you remember seeing Manchester City play in?
My first vivid memory is from back in the mid 90's as a kid at Maine Road, I think we were playing QPR, and our keeper Martyn Margetson gave away a freekick and gave the ball straight to the opposition,who passed it round him and scored into an empty net. I cried my eyes out as a disbelieving kid becausee I couldn't understand why he did it, such a positive first memory.

If there was one player you could take from the current Sunderland side to play for Manchester City, who would it be?
Darren Bent, that's if I had to, we're fortunate to be in a position where we can be choosy now, but Bent's a very good striker, I just don't see much else about your team, no offence but I think Bruce has bought poorly this summer.

Ex-Sunderland manager Peter Reid is thought of fondly by Sunderland fans after he took the club to their most successful Premier league finishes ever. What is your opinion on the former City player and manager?
He was apparently doing a very good job for us, so obviously after where we we ended up after his departure it was dissappointing to lose him. He did a great job at Sunderland and definately put you back on the right track, good manager.

Niall Quinn is a Sunderland and Man City legend also and is regarded probably more highly than any ever former Sunderland player. What is your opinion on the big man?
Had good spells for both clubs, has done a good job as your Chairman and helped us out over Fulop last season, so yeah, I like the big man.

Do you really think that you can challenge for the league title eventually, or do you perhaps feel that, like Real Madrid did years ago, just spending loads of money doesn't necessarily determine that the team will work well together?
Yes I do, the problem for Real Madrid was they just bought for the sake of buying and for shirt sales, when they do it properly they win things. I think we will win the league in the next 2 years and will be in the Champions League next season, because we just have a great setup and great backing.

What are your hopes for your club this season, what is the minimum achievement you expect from Mancini?
Top 4 and a trophy. After the money we've spent we just have to aspire to these things, or there's no point.

What are your thoughts on Sunderland AFC?
Good club that's starting to settle into the Premier League after being like West Brom for a while. Decent home support with a passionate and loyal away following that make a lot of racket whenever they pitch up at COMS, could do with singing more original songs rather than just trying to wind us up by singing our rivals anthems :P. I heard your owner is quite wealthy so am surprised Bruce hasn't bought some creative and attacking players, you must have about 400 defenders on your books now, and I thought apart from Bent that you were pretty negative during last season too.

What is your prediction for the game?
If we contain Bent I don't see you scoring, so 2-0 to us.

What are your memories of past Sunderland Vs Manchester City games?
Us beating you to be honest!, we've had the better of the recent games so you're due a win, but I think we're strong enough to cope. Hughes's last game in charge last season is properly the one that sticks most in the mind, quite a surreal day and game to be honest.

Manchester City player Nedum Onuoha recently joined Sunderland on a season long loan, what can we expect from him?
Now I'm one of the fans who doesn't really rate Ned. Never been of top quality, works hard enough but he spoke out at the end of last year and I'm glad he's gone, he'll do alright for you, nothing more.
 
Have you noticed a change in the support you receive at home games since the club came into money? Have you noticed that fans from wider areas have began to support the club?

Have to say i have noticed a bit more 'spoilt brat' action on the forums, but no changes at the games.

What is the first game you remember seeing Manchester City play in?

Getting beat 4-1 off Oldham at home (I should've took the hint)

If there was one player you could take from the current Sunderland side to play for Manchester City, who would it be?

Probably Bent, not sure whether he'd get a game for us at the moment though. Good Striker that gets far too much grief off people.


Ex-Sunderland manager Peter Reid is thought of fondly by Sunderland fans after he took the club to their most successful Premier league finishes ever. What is your opinion on the former City player and manager?

Good bloke, sacked prematurely at City and like watching his teams play.


Niall Quinn is a Sunderland and Man City legend also and is regarded probably more highly than any ever former Sunderland player. What is your opinion on the big man?


Was a legend for us, loved playing against the Reds and we built our team around him. Saw his debut for City and knew he'd be a great signing. Also remember the first time i heard Niall Quinns disco pants, Oldham away 5-2... good times

Do you really think that you can challenge for the league title eventually, or do you perhaps feel that, like Real Madrid did years ago, just spending loads of money doesn't necessarily determine that the team will work well together?

I think 'challenge' for the title is fair, winning it is a different proposition. In the next few years i'm sure City will come close. More important for me is seeing ANY trophy, 35 years of some dire football is about to end. Mancini knows what he's doing.

What are your hopes for your club this season, what is the minimum achievement you expect from Mancini?

Top 4 for sure and hopefully a final in one of the cups.

What are your thoughts on Sunderland AFC?

No problems with Sunderland fans you're fans and team were great the day you got relegated at Maine Road, Gaberdini header ??? Felt sorry for you that day because you played some electric football.

What is your prediction for the game?

A back down to earth (for us) 1-1. If Balotelli get on, 2-1 us.

What are your memories of past Sunderland Vs Manchester City games?

Always feeling we'd never get anything out of Roker park and the 3-2 that sent you down. David White got the nail in the coffin goal...

Manchester City player Nedum Onuoha recently joined Sunderland on a season long loan, what can we expect from him?

Other blues may disagree, but you have got the defender that has made the least mistakes in a blue shirt in the last 5 years. If he can learn to attack crosses he'll be a class premiership player for years.
 
Have you noticed a change in the support you receive at home games since the club came into money? Have you noticed that fans from wider areas have began to support the club?

Not really, but I think a growth in plastic fans is inevitable if we succeed. Success is what draws plastics, that's why United and Liverpool have so many

What is the first game you remember seeing Manchester City play in?

I was a kid and I'm ashamed to say I don't remember who the opposition were. Swindon perhaps. It was in season 1964/5 I think, and we were gash and got stuffed. Maine Road was pretty empty.

If there was one player you could take from the current Sunderland side to play for Manchester City, who would it be?

Bent would be the obvious choice.

Ex-Sunderland manager Peter Reid is thought of fondly by Sunderland fans after he took the club to their most successful Premier league finishes ever. What is your opinion on the former City player and manager?

He got us to 5th twice and we have rarely been so high in recently history. His assistant, Sam Ellis, was not an asset to him, and his Chairman, Swales, was a liability to him and every other City Manager of his era. Reid did a decent job in the circumstances.

Niall Quinn is a Sunderland and Man City legend also and is regarded probably more highly than any ever former Sunderland player. What is your opinion on the big man?

He is indeed a City legend and a very nice bloke. Seems to have done a good job at your place.

Do you really think that you can challenge for the league title eventually, or do you perhaps feel that, like Real Madrid did years ago, just spending loads of money doesn't necessarily determine that the team will work well together?

Too early to say. I just know that if we'd have stayed as were we'd never have had a chance of the title. So I'm grateful to the Sheikh whatever happens.

What are your hopes for your club this season, what is the minimum achievement you expect from Mancini?

Top Four a minimum requirement. A trophy would be a bonus, even if was the Carling Cup.

What are your thoughts on Sunderland AFC?

A well-run club. I have liked you a lot better since you got rid of Keane, given that I despised the man with a passion. I see no reason why you should not progress and get European football and even the occasional top 4 place. That's about as good as it can get without someone dropping hundreds of millions on you. You have a great fan base and I remember some great games where that has really shown. Like your visit to Maine Road in the Cup in the early 70s.

What is your prediction for the game?

Quite close - maybe even a draw.

What are your memories of past Sunderland Vs Manchester City games? That Cup game I mentioned. The one at Maine Road where you were relegated but gave your team great support.

Manchester City player Nedum Onuoha recently joined Sunderland on a season long loan, what can we expect from him?

Decent player who has had bad luck with injuries. I think you might see him develop into a better class if he gets enough games, and he could make a decent permanent signing. There are lots of worse defenders about.
 
Have you noticed a change in the support you receive at home games since the club came into money? Have you noticed that fans from wider areas have began to support the club?

We picked up quite a few Thai supporters during Thaksin's ownership but so far the home support hasn't changed much.

What is the first game you remember seeing Manchester City play in?

I think it was against QPR in 1969 but I'm pretty sure I saw a combined City/Utd XI at Maine Road for Bert Trautmann's testimonial in 1964.

If there was one player you could take from the current Sunderland side to play for Manchester City, who would it be?

I like Steed Malbranque & Andy Reid but Darren Bent would be my choice as he's the proven, old-fashioned centre-forward we've not had for a while.

Ex-Sunderland manager Peter Reid is thought of fondly by Sunderland fans after he took the club to their most successful Premier league finishes ever. What is your opinion on the former City player and manager?

Hard not to like Reidy but his brand of football was, to put it mildly, "industrial". He seems to have a 2-3 season life-span before it all falls apart but he's well thought off among Blues.

Niall Quinn is a Sunderland and Man City legend also and is regarded probably more highly than any ever former Sunderland player. What is your opinion on the big man?

Top man in every way. Great player and great guy. Plus there's his Disco pants!

Do you really think that you can challenge for the league title eventually, or do you perhaps feel that, like Real Madrid did years ago, just spending loads of money doesn't necessarily determine that the team will work well together?

You only have to look up the coast to Sid James Park to see that spending money is no guarantee of success. But we do seem to be getting it right eventually so I'm confident we will be challengers in the next couple of seasons.

What are your hopes for your club this season, what is the minimum achievement you expect from Mancini?

I would like to see us finish 3rd, with a cup final appearance in one trophy and a semi in another.

What are your thoughts on Sunderland AFC?

Always had a lot of time for them but particularly so with Quinny at the helm. You've always struck me as passionate & loyal supporters. But not sure you'll ever achieve anything under Steve Bruce. Can't stand his constant whingeing about refs even when he's clearly in the wrong. I'd ditch him for O'Neill if I were Quinny.

What is your prediction for the game?

You nearly beat us last season even though we seemed to pepper your goal. Gordon was outstanding that day but I think we'll prove a sterner test this season. You've quite a lot of new players to bed in and we're a tougher proposition. 2-1 to City.

What are your memories of past Sunderland Vs Manchester City games?

A few stick in my mind. The 1973 FA Cup game when we looked to be cruising but a stupid ball out from the normally reliable Joe Corrigan gifted you a goal and eventually the tie, after a replay. You went on to lift the trophy but we got Dennis Tueart & Dave Watson so it wasn't all bad. Another was 2 seasons ago when Sean Wright Phillips made his second debut for us at the SoL. Then of course there was last season's 4-3 at CoMS, which had everything that was good and bad about Mark Hughes' City team

Manchester City player Nedum Onuoha recently joined Sunderland on a season long loan, what can we expect from him?

I'm glad he's only on loan and not sold. He's a bright and unassuming guy and not a bad player but he needs a run of games as injuries have disrupted his career. We could never decide whether he was a full back or a centre back so it will be interesting to see how his season pans out. He's lightning quick but sometimes lacks a little composure with the ball.
 
Have you noticed a change in the support you receive at home games since the club came into money? Have you noticed that fans from wider areas have began to support the club?
There has been a shift in attitude from some sections of our support that can be arrogant to say the least but generally they are a minority and on occasions it is only really misguided humour. As for glory hunters or Johnny come lateleys, they will come over time, but we are fortunate that our support has always been large and strong and it is still these fans that hold the majority of the season tickets and thus fill the ground week in week out, therefore until the ground is extended it will be hard for the newcomers to push out the loyalists.

What is the first game you remember seeing Manchester City play in?
City 4 Wolves 0 (1980ish)

If there was one player you could take from the current Sunderland side to play for Manchester City, who would it be?
Without meaning to sound condescending there currently aren't any so I'd just take Ned back. If thats unacceptable then I suppose Bent would probably be your best assett currently.

Ex-Sunderland manager Peter Reid is thought of fondly by Sunderland fans after he took the club to their most successful Premier league finishes ever. What is your opinion on the former City player and manager?
Nice bloke, did well for us and got treated harshly (he's not alone in this though) hasn't overly critisized the club to my knowledge so good luck to the fella.

Niall Quinn is a Sunderland and Man City legend also and is regarded probably more highly than any ever former Sunderland player. What is your opinion on the big man?
Bit different to Reid, Quiny is one of those guys in life you cant help but like. Im really pleased everything seems to be going as well at sunderland for him as it is. Im sure he'll always get a warm welcome at City when he comes to visit and will always have a fond remembrance in the hearts of Blues of a certain age. Basically, Good man Quinny, gave me many hours of entertainment and effort.

Do you really think that you can challenge for the league title eventually, or do you perhaps feel that, like Real Madrid did years ago, just spending loads of money doesn't necessarily determine that the team will work well together.
I dont know if we will win it this year but I am confident we will be in the race to the back end of the season, we will play a part in whoever gets it and should be top 3 in my opinion. I would like to think we will pick up 1 of the 3 trophys and go far in the others as well.

What are your hopes for your club this season, what is the minimum achievement you expect from Mancini?
As above, top 3 challenging and 1 trophy. Mancini's popularity is growing and inning a trophy and challenging hopefully could see him here for at least the length of his contract, maybe longer building a dynasty if he likes it over here.

What are your thoughts on Sunderland AFC?
Indifference, Not really local enough to register on my Dislike/Hate register and not really considered one of the clubs big enough that people view them as Historically threatening. That said I detest the Geordies and know a couple of Mackems so good luck to you. I see you as no threat but think you are a solid prem team destined to finish most seasons between 8th and 12th. A little luck and investment and I would say that Europa would and should be your target each season.

What is your prediction for the game?
3-1 City win (Ned to be the first to score past us this season)

What are your memories of past Sunderland Vs Manchester City games?
Again not one that sticks long in the memory sorry. I remember games against your local rivals for 2 reasons, the skunks because of my dislike for them and the other lot because inevitably games against them are dull and boring and usually anti-football matches (forget the 8-0 thumping we had at least half a team on strike !)

Manchester City player Nedum Onuoha recently joined Sunderland on a season long loan, what can we expect from him?Id say that by the end of the season you will be wanting to prioritise taking him on a permanent deal, you may get him due to our investment and squad size. Ned is well liked at City and is a very solid player who is capable with game time and staying injury free of being an england squad regular without a doubt. regular football with you is only going to improve him and as much as I hate the elephant man having a manager who played at the top level in your position can only be a positive thing for Ned.
 
Ric said:
Been sent a few questions from SAFC World (<a class="postlink" href="http://www.safc-world.co.uk/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;">http://www.safc-world.co.uk/</a>). If you fancy responding please leave your answers below.

Cheers,
Ric

Have you noticed a change in the support you receive at home games since the club came into money? Have you noticed that fans from wider areas have began to support the club? No, but I fully expect it to happen.

What is the first game you remember seeing Manchester City play in? A friendly v Bury just after we won the league in 1968.

If there was one player you could take from the current Sunderland side to play for Manchester City, who would it be? Nedum Onuoha.

Ex-Sunderland manager Peter Reid is thought of fondly by Sunderland fans after he took the club to their most successful Premier league finishes ever. What is your opinion on the former City player and manager?
A great player, and a good manager. He gave us our best league finish for years.

Niall Quinn is a Sunderland and Man City legend also and is regarded probably more highly than any ever former Sunderland player. What is your opinion on the big man?

A City legend. Always gave 100% and was a fans favourite.

Do you really think that you can challenge for the league title eventually, or do you perhaps feel that, like Real Madrid did years ago, just spending loads of money doesn't necessarily determine that the team will work well together?
I think we will be very very close to winning the title this season.

What are your hopes for your club this season, what is the minimum achievement you expect from Mancini?
Bobby Manc does need to win a trophy this season.


What are your thoughts on Sunderland AFC?
I've never been to the ground. Never had strong feelings about them, but I loved their 1973 cup win and still remember Bob Stokoe running on the pitch to hug the keeper when they beat Leeds. I turned against them when Keane was the manager, and am also no fan of the elephant man, but I prefer them to Newcastle or Boro.

What is your prediction for the game?
A 2-0 City win.

What are your memories of past Sunderland Vs Manchester City games?
The main one is the 1973 FA Cup 5th round. We'd beaten Liverpool in the fourth round, drew Sunderland at home and really fancied our chances. But we drew 1-1, lost the replay and the rest is history!
Manchester City player Nedum Onuoha recently joined Sunderland on a season long loan, what can we expect from him?
He is a top quality right-sided central defender who will give his all. And the nicest bloke you could wish to meet.
 
Have you noticed a change in the support you receive at home games since the club came into money? Have you noticed that fans from wider areas have began to support the club?
There has been a change in the early years between us moving from Maine Road to COMS, but maybe just settling down a bit now. Was sat in the East Stand level 1 last night at COMS, the atmosphere was fantastic. Was like getting a season ticket for the football and the comedy store rolled into one! Maybe the segregation of different sections of fans (extension of family stand, the expensive matchday experience seats on level 2 for 2011-2012 season) might actually work out.

Still seems to be everyone with Mancunian accents, very little snap happy tourists from what I can see so far.

What is the first game you remember seeing Manchester City play in?
I think i was around 5/6, and it was against Nottingham Forest. Seem to remember a 3-1 win, but my memory has been washed away down the years with bad Fosters and Carling.

If there was one player you could take from the current Sunderland side to play for Manchester City, who would it be?
Although we may not need strikers now with the signing of Balotelli, the only player I'd think would be Darren Bent. But again, we would be destroying English football by buying him wouldn't we? (tongue in cheek) Thank you for Fulop last year by the way!

Ex-Sunderland manager Peter Reid is thought of fondly by Sunderland fans after he took the club to their most successful Premier league finishes ever. What is your opinion on the former City player and manager?
Always held a high regard for Peter Reid. Hasn't ever been able to adapt to the modern game from a management perspective. Never has had a bad word to say about us to people or the press, and I've never heard of a fellow blue talk about Reid in a bad light.

Niall Quinn is a Sunderland and Man City legend also and is regarded probably more highly than any ever former Sunderland player. What is your opinion on the big man?
A credit to football, and to both cities. Met the man at a book signing in the Bridges for his autobiography around 7 years ago, down to earth and pleasant. I'd thoroughly recommend to read his autobiography. It shows the man to have that humorous side to him, and how he warmed to Manchester and more so to Sunderland as he progressed through his career. Dean Saunders will never forget that penalty save for as long as he lives!

Do you really think that you can challenge for the league title eventually, or do you perhaps feel that, like Real Madrid did years ago, just spending loads of money doesn't necessarily determine that the team will work well together?
I think we will, but it will take time. The city fans around 25-35 years old who went through the worst of times in the club's history seem to be more patient to wait and just enjoy the everlasting rollercoaster ride that is supporting Manchester City. Some of the new breed of fans seem a little over anxious and want success here and now. We are by no means in a stable position, and some City fans still hold doubts about Mancini as a manager. But as positive results happen, and confidence grows, I hope this feeling starts to whittle away and that we can actually build on something for a change, rather than the managerial and player merry go round path that we have followed for decades.

What are your hopes for your club this season, what is the minimum achievement you expect from Mancini?
Top 4, possibly sneak third. I reckon we will be 12 points off the leaders, which is roughly where Arsenal ended up last year. This is what I stated at the start of the season, and I'm sticking to it despite a fantastic Liverpool result that showed lots of positive signs.

What are your thoughts on Sunderland AFC?
I lived in Sunderland for 3 years between 2001-2005 (a gap year back in Manchester in between). Went to a couple of games whilst i was up there, one of which was that defeat to Tottenham after that Christian Ziege free kick (anyone remember that game?). In the Premiership, the City is literally a ghost town in the centre on a matchday. Fun times in Idols, especially for the England vs Turkey game. I hope the Mackems stay up as it is a good day out in the North East.

Key Players
- Bent
- Gordon

What is your prediction for the game?
We have a good record against Sunderland, going back to when Trevor Sinclair scored a few years back. Pushed us all the way last year. I just hope we don't get blinkered and over confident after a great result against Liverpool. With the options open to us, i think our system will change as the game progresses and that we will be good for a couple of goals. Now Kenwyne Jones has gone, Sunderland don't have the height presence that typically troubles us at the back (e.g. Crouch for Tottenham also).

Score - 2-0 City.

What are your memories of past Sunderland Vs Manchester City games?
Mentioned above the Trevor Sinclair goal at your place, also the Vassell goal a few years back. Can be a bit of a stormy affair, especially with you having Bruce in charge and putting in a few tasty challenges over past meetings. Darren Bent seems to go missing in games against City, is this the time for that to change?

Manchester City player Nedum Onuoha recently joined Sunderland on a season long loan, what can we expect from him?
Nedum is a down to earth, likeable guy. Always gives 100% and is as strong as an Ox. Very quick too, showed by the goal he scored last year where he run through the defence to score. Can play as right back or in the centre. Will definitely help you to concede less goals than last season. Wasn't pushing to be England U21 captain for nothing.
 
Have you noticed a change in the support you receive at home games since the club came into money? Have you noticed that fans from wider areas have began to support the club? - no

What is the first game you remember seeing Manchester City play in? early 70's v WHU, lost (of course) 3-1

If there was one player you could take from the current Sunderland side to play for Manchester City, who would it be? struggling here tbh, Bent or can we have Neds back

Ex-Sunderland manager Peter Reid is thought of fondly by Sunderland fans after he took the club to their most successful Premier league finishes ever. What is your opinion on the former City player and manager? liked him as a player, not great as a manager despite good league table finishes for him

Niall Quinn is a Sunderland and Man City legend also and is regarded probably more highly than any ever former Sunderland player. What is your opinion on the big man? fills his disco pants brilliantly, best goalkeeper we've never had

Do you really think that you can challenge for the league title eventually, or do you perhaps feel that, like Real Madrid did years ago, just spending loads of money doesn't necessarily determine that the team will work well together?yes, next year

What are your hopes for your club this season, what is the minimum achievement you expect from Mancini? top 3

What are your thoughts on Sunderland AFC?had a soft spot since jim montgomery heroics against leeds, thanks for tueart and big dave watson

What is your prediction for the game?we'll win, obviously

What are your memories of past Sunderland Vs Manchester City games?us winning, mostly

Manchester City player Nedum Onuoha recently joined Sunderland on a season long loan, what can we expect from him?
too long spent on the injury list, solid intelligent performances when he's fit, fast and strong but not showy, good player
 
Have you noticed a change in the support you receive at home games since the club came into money? Have you noticed that fans from wider areas have began to support the club?

There do seem to be a few more... I was stood in the new City Square bar next to a group of young Japanese (I'm guessing they were students) who were enjoying a few beers and getting quite excited about seeing Police on horses... Bless. But I think this is inevitable with the coverage we're now getting and the success which seems to be around the corner...? I'm not bothered by it at all because if we want to be one of the best then it's pretty inevitable really.



What is the first game you remember seeing Manchester City play in?

v Luton Town at Maine Road in October 1974. I was 9.


If there was one player you could take from the current Sunderland side to play for Manchester City, who would it be?

Niall Quinn. Had to look up your squad as only know a couple like Bent, Cattermole, Gordon, Richardson... But I can honestly say that I wouldn't want any of them right now... Sorry.


Ex-Sunderland manager Peter Reid is thought of fondly by Sunderland fans after he took the club to their most successful Premier league finishes ever. What is your opinion on the former City player and manager?

Great old-school football man. It's a pity that he wasn't given more time when he managed us as he was doing well, in hindsight. But I have to admit that I was one, of many, who didn't like his tactics/style. But little did we know what problems were ahead back then. But hindsight is a great thing eh? Top bloke though.


Niall Quinn is a Sunderland and Man City legend also and is regarded probably more highly than any ever former Sunderland player. What is your opinion on the big man?

Quinny is a legend. End of. Just a pity that he's now more associated with Sunderland than Man City. But because of his presence at Sunderland, then you'll find that most City fans will have a lot of time for your club.


Do you really think that you can challenge for the league title eventually, or do you perhaps feel that, like Real Madrid did years ago, just spending loads of money doesn't necessarily determine that the team will work well together?

Yes we can! We're spending a lot of money but I wouldn't say that we're spending it unwisely... Just look at who we've bought this summer. Yaya, Silva, Milner, Boateng, Kolarov and Balotelli would walk into ANY squad/team in the league.


What are your hopes for your club this season, what is the minimum achievement you expect from Mancini?

Champions League qualification this season. A trophy next season. Minimum. I hope to be challenging on all fronts this season actually. Let's face it, we got a good enough squad now!


What are your thoughts on Sunderland AFC?

I have a real soft spot for Canny Auld Sunrun as I was a student up in the North East back in the 80's. I was at Roker Park when the Chelsea fans famously started kicking off (in the paddock in front of them actually so had to run for cover when it started raining money!) and having had a couple of terrible experiences with the Neanderthals up at St James's, then the fact that you're their main rivals, and you've got Big Quinny and his "Disco Pants", then you'll always be a team who's results I look out for... Just a pity about Steve Bruce being you manager really. But knowing him it won't be long before he's off, blaming everyone else for the lack of progress... Hopefully he'll turn up at the Swamp/Owe Trafford to replace Taggart... Now THAT would be funny!


What is your prediction for the game?

Sunderland 0-2 City


What are your memories of past Sunderland Vs Manchester City games?

My main memory was the game at Maine road when Barry Venison made his (scoring?) debut and you beat us. This was after the jokes about him being a "deer" player... Also the game we beat you 3-0 a couple of seasons ago stands out as it was SWP 's homecoming game IIRC.


Manchester City player Nedum Onuoha recently joined Sunderland on a season long loan, what can we expect from him?

He's a good lad (City fan) with pace to burn. He seems to have got very (understandably) disheartened lately so hopefully the change will be good for him. His performance on Soccer AM was probably the last straw... He is injury prone though, so you'll do well to get a full season out of him. But I think, if he stays fit, he'll improve you and is FAR better than Anton F. Can't see him ever coming back here, so if he's going to go anywhere then Sunderland is a great option for him and I'll be keeping an eye on his progress and hoping he does well for you. Will be interesting to see which position he ends up in... I'd say he's a better CB than RB.
 

Don't have an account? Register now and see fewer ads!

SIGN UP
Back
Top
  AdBlock Detected
Bluemoon relies on advertising to pay our hosting fees. Please support the site by disabling your ad blocking software to help keep the forum sustainable. Thanks.