Title: Bradley Dack Joins Sunderland on One-Year Deal, Determined to Make a Mark
Sunderland AFC has signed attacking midfielder Bradley Dack on a one-year deal, with the option to extend for an additional 12 months. The move comes after Dack’s departure from Blackburn Rovers at the end of last season, as he sought regular playing time that the club couldn’t guarantee amidst their plans. This decision marked the end of Dack’s six-year tenure at Ewood Park, marred by a series of unfortunate cruciate knee injuries that disrupted his progress.
Dack’s first three years at Blackburn were highly memorable, with his performances capturing the attention of numerous suitors from across the English Football League (EFL). However, his career hit a setback as he endured lengthy recoveries from two separate cruciate knee injuries. Despite returning to full fitness, he had to settle for a squad role in the previous season, further fueling his ambition to prove his worth and showcase his abilities.
Reflecting on his time at Blackburn, Dack stated, I had three really good years at the club, then two when I had a couple of bad injuries. I managed to come back from them and did OK but I still feel like I have a point to prove, especially to that club. Joining Sunderland provides him with the perfect platform to reignite his career, aligning with the club’s aspirations and his personal goals.
Dack’s move to Sunderland was the culmination of ongoing discussions throughout the summer, and he expressed great interest in joining the Black Cats as soon as he became aware of their interest. The sheer size of the club and its passionate fanbase acted as a genuine attraction for the talented midfielder. Additionally, the opportunity to work once again under the guidance of manager Tony Mowbray, who previously led Dack at Blackburn, added further motivation to the deal.
Describing his relationship with Mowbray, Dack spoke highly of the manager, stating, I can’t say a bad word about him, he’s just a top guy, a top person, a good-hearted person. That’s massively important in football. We got on really well in the five years I was with him. He helped me out a lot on and off the pitch. I can’t thank him enough, and it’s nice to join up with him again.
Thrilled to be a part of Sunderland AFC, Dack expressed his excitement, saying, It feels brilliant to be here. It’s been a bit of a drawn-out process, but I’m really happy to finally get it done and come and play for a massive football club. He acknowledged the club’s stature, exceptional training facilities, and the positive feedback he received from former teammates who spoke highly of the club, making this move feel like the perfect fit for this stage of his career.
Dack firmly believes that Sunderland is in a strong position to build on their success from last season, where they reached the playoffs in their first year back in the Championship. While promotion back to the Premier League ultimately eluded them, he sees a solid foundation to progress from. Revitalized by Dack’s experience and skills, Sunderland aims to flourish further, backed by his contributions in terms of goals, assists, and mentorship for the younger players.
As Dack eloquently puts it, I’ll be here to bring some experience to the team, hopefully goals, assists, and try to help the young lads along the way. Who knows what can happen this season.
With Dack’s arrival, Sunderland AFC seeks to continue their upward trajectory and fulfill their ambitions, while the talented midfielder aims to prove his doubters wrong and reignite his career on Wearside. The club’s size, fanbase, and strong rapport with Mowbray were crucial factors in Dack’s decision, and he is eager to make a significant impact on the pitch. The Black Cats embark on the new season with renewed hope and a determined player ready to prove his worth.
