Dear Roker Report,

I fully echo Martin Wanless’s editorial from May 6th. It stands as the most comprehensive and accurate assessment of the turmoil currently engulfing SAFC, penned by either a supporter or a journalist. If someone were to draft a paper outlining how not to manage all facets of a professional football club, using the past year as a case study, it would likely be deemed unbelievable by readers.

In fact, I believe Martin could have been even more scathing in certain aspects of his review. For instance, he might have touched upon Speakman’s seemingly audacious comparisons between Neil and Mowbray’s coaching abilities and the disastrous tenure of Michael Beale. Speakman’s remarks about Beale’s coaching prowess being unparalleled were utterly misguided.

Additionally, Martin could have inquired about the veracity of claims suggesting that Speakman responded with, “Because I could,” when questioned by a reporter about why he sacked Mowbray. Such responses lack decency, respect, and professionalism.

Having just perused Leo Pearlman’s season review, I find myself in complete agreement with every word. Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately, Leo is one of us – he understands. However, the majority of the Board of Directors are foreign, privileged, arrogant, and disconnected. Until this balance shifts, and Speakman’s influence is entirely eradicated, I fear that things will remain stagnant. As a result, I have decided not to renew my season ticket.

From 1961 to 2024, I’ve reached my limit.

Alan Jackson

Editor’s note [Martin]: Thank you for your understanding, Alan – your support means a lot. While I acknowledge there may have been areas where I could have been more critical, it’s clear that significant changes are needed this summer. The one glimmer of hope I hold onto is the realization that regardless of their background, no one on the board could possibly view this season as a success. Therefore, I’m optimistic that there’s a substantial overhaul, at least in our approach, being strategized right now. Because it’s evident that what we’re currently doing isn’t effective, and change is imperative.

---

Dear Roker Report,

As an American fan who has followed the team for the past two years, my connection with Sunderland solidified when I had the opportunity to watch them play just five minutes away from where I live in North Carolina. It was a joyous experience, with the players being approachable and friendly, willing to take time out of their training to interact with fans, sign shirts, and take pictures.

Some might label me a “happy clapper,” perhaps due to my relative newness to the club or my lack of knowledge about the time before our current Championship stay. Reflecting on last year’s team, we had a blend of experience and young talent that contributed significantly to our success. This season, Speakman took a bold risk by relying on those same young players to make an impact, with some succeeding and others, like Ekwah, struggling to live up to expectations.

While this season cannot be considered successful by any measure, with numerous mistakes and disappointments that understandably upset fans, it’s crucial to recognize that the team also has a job to do. I won’t delve into the complexities of Financial Fair Play (FFP) because, as an American, I admit I don’t fully grasp it yet. However, recent sponsorship deals offer hope of resolving some of the merchandise issues from last year, potentially bringing in more revenue to strengthen the squad with experienced players, as many fans desire.

Despite the criticism directed at KLD and Speakman for the current state of affairs, I believe it’s important for fans to take a step back and consider the broader picture. The women’s team is on the brink of promotion, and the youth teams are performing well, even qualifying for European competition next year. This broader perspective underscores the potential for future success and reminds us to maintain faith and support for the entire club.

While much of the blame for this season’s failures lies with KLD and Speakman, the players also bear responsibility, with Ekwah being a particular focus (we’re counting on you to return as a defensive powerhouse next year; we believe in your capabilities). However, as fans, we also share in that responsibility. One of the reasons I was drawn to this club is the passion and fervor of the supporters, reminiscent of the Green Bay Packers, the football team I support here in America (which, for those unfamiliar, is fan-owned, with fans having the opportunity to buy shares in the team every decade or so). However, this year, it felt like we were excessively negative on social media (especially towards young players like Hemir) and too quiet during games, particularly at home.

I hope that everyone associated with the club takes this summer as a time for reflection, including us fans, and returns with renewed determination to improve and restore the team to where it rightfully belongs.

That’s my impassioned American spiel for the day.

Ha’way the lads!

Browny

Editor’s note [Martin]: Thank you for your email, Browny. As a collective of fans, we’ve endured significant disappointment over the past 25 years – from record lows in the Premier League to double relegation, extended winless spells at home, and four seasons in League One to begin with – and regardless of current circumstances, those experiences linger. Throughout our time in League One and last season in the Championship, we’ve witnessed the resilience and unity of our fan base. However, perhaps due to our turbulent history, we’re naturally cautious when we observe mistakes being made. This season, there have been instances that indicate Speakman and KLD, in particular, haven’t fully grasped the essence of this club yet.

Your observation about fan responsibility is thought-provoking. While I also felt uneasy about Beale’s appointment for Sunderland at the time, the negative reactions online, which spilled over into the games, ultimately undermined any chance of success. Some of the criticism, particularly online, directed at players has been profoundly damaging. We’re aware that players and staff read everything written about them online, and although we might dismiss online discourse as not reflective of the real world, it unfortunately holds real weight today. As supporters, we must consider the impact of our online comments. We all have a role to play in shaping the atmosphere around the club.

GET MORE NEWS HERE