Sunderland manager Dick Advocaat has given a brutally honest interview with the media ahead of the crunch clash with Swansea City tomorrow. The experienced Dutchman took questions from the press today, with Sunderland very much in the media spotlight this week but for all the wrong reasons. The Black Cats have struggled so far this season and sit rock bottom of the premier league, and as a result, have had a media backlash locally and nationwide.
The Sunderland manager was not holding back today when asked about the future of players such as Emanuele Giaccherini and Jermain Defoe, who have both been linked with moves away this week.
Advocaat very interesting at today's #SAFC press call. Confirms Giaccherini is set to leave as he wants to play in a different competition..
— Rob Scanlon (@RobScanlon_TV) August 21, 2015
…also said that contrary to what has been said, Ellis Short did not promise him a certain amount to spend, but that he would invest. #SAFC
— Rob Scanlon (@RobScanlon_TV) August 21, 2015
"Everybody is for sale" he said when asked about Defoe. If a player wants to leave, they can go. #SAFC
— Rob Scanlon (@RobScanlon_TV) August 21, 2015
Sunderland Echo editor Chris Young was present at the press conference, and he too reiterated how honest the Dutchman has been today in regards to finances and rumours that have been spread this week.
Dick Advocaat very honest about finances, transfers and state of the #safc side today.
— Chris Young (@cysportspress) August 21, 2015
Below is a brief rundown on what Advocaat has stated today at the conference, addressing the issues at the club admirably.
ADVOCAAT: "I'm still not happy about the last two games and the players know that, so they have to show they have reacted."
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) August 21, 2015
ADVOCAAT: "We can only do better and everyone realises that. It will happen I have no doubts about that."
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) August 21, 2015
ADVOCAAT: "Swansea have a very good side with very good individuals, but we will give them a lot of problems."
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) August 21, 2015
Advocaat says Defoe will play where he wants him to play, whether that be wide right, wide left or through the middle. #SAFC
— Keith Downie (@SkySports_Keith) August 21, 2015
Advocaat also confirmed that club captain John O’Shea will return to the squad in place of the injured Younes Kaboul, a change that may have been made regardless.
ADVOCAAT: "Younes Kaboul is injured and is not in the squad."
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) August 21, 2015
The Dutchman would also not be drawn on speculation linking him with Jonathan De Guzman but did state his admiration for the player.
Advocaat admits admiration for DeGuzman but won't say if he's made a move for the Napoli man.
— Keith Downie (@SkySports_Keith) August 21, 2015
