These are exciting times on Wearside, with Wes Brown and John O’Shea becoming Sunderland’s eighth and ninth summer signings.
It is a real signal of intent from the Black Cats, who are now moving away from the shadow of Newcastle as the North-East’s number one club.
One could be forgiven for overlooking the acquisitions of Brown and O’Shea as merely run- –of-the-mill arrivals. Despite falling out of favour at Old Trafford, the two players combined have made 754 appearances for Manchester United and 20 major honours in the process.
Can United afford to lose such experienced players? Sir Alex evidently believes so as he sticks to his philosophy of bringing through young players to start the club’s next decade of domination.
The defence is arguably the Champions’ strongest department and they have already added Phil Jones and David de Gea to replace the departing Edwin van der Sar. Add the emergence of the Da Silva brothers, and it was obvious to see that the pair were being pushed towards the exit door.
They are likely to do well at the Stadium of Light and will join a host of former United players including: Phil Bardsley, Kieran Richardson and Frazier Campbell to add weight to the Black Cats European charge next season.
So besides their experience, what will Brown and O’Shea bring to Steve Bruce’s squad? Despite a disappointing 2010/11, Wes Brown in top form remains a reliable and competent defender capable of playing anywhere across the back four.
Meanwhile, John O’Shea is the ultimate utility man, who can play in defence and in central midfield and even in goal- as shown in an away game at Tottenham. He will certainly be missed at United.
On reflection, it seems to be a deal which suits both clubs, with Sunderland benefitting from their experience and United allowing two of their most decorated servants to secure regular first team football.
James Hilsum