- Sunderland eyeing up new contract for Jack Whittaker
- Youngster has impressed with strong academy form
- Could feature for first team next season
Following fine form in the academy, Sunderland are hoping to tie Jack Whittaker down to a new contract.
Having signed his first professional deal with Sunderland last summer, Jack Whittaker has one year remaining on his current contract, with both parties now in talks over fresh terms, according to the Sunderland Echo.
Naturally an attacking midfielder, Jack Whittaker has showcased his versatility for the academy by operating across the frontline, impressing in almost every attacking role he has featured in.
Fine Academy form
Jack Whittaker joined Sunderland at the age of 10 and has since developed into one of the club’s brightest young talents, enjoying another impressive campaign for the U21 side this season.
The 19-year-old has registered 11 goals and two assists in 29 appearances across all competitions for the academy side this season.
The young Englishman has played a key role in Sunderland A.F.C.’s run to the Premier League Cup final, with the side set to host Burnley later this month.
Standout Performance
Whittaker netted a brace in the semi-final against Blackburn Rovers to help secure Sunderland’s place in the final against Burnley, a game that perfectly encapsulated just why the youngster is so highly-rated.
Speaking after the game, the Englishman said: “I think my development over the last few weeks has been good; I’m really happy with it.
“Playing an advanced role, I want to go and score goals, and doing it at the stadium is a great feeling, hearing the fans in the stadium as well.”
First-team chance?
Jack Whittaker’s impressive season has brought him firmly onto the radar of Sunderland first-team manager Régis Le Bris.
Although yet to make his senior debut, Jack Whittaker has already been named on the bench for Sunderland in Premier League action against Brighton at the Stadium of Light, as well as in FA Cup ties away at Port Vale and Oxford United.
As Sunderland begin gear up for their second season back in the Premier League, Jack Whittaker will be hoping to push himself into first-team contention and make his mark on the campaign ahead.
