Sunderland youngster George Honeyman was made captain of his side at the start of the 2018/19 season.
Sunderland midfielder George Honeyman was one of the shining lights in a dull season on Wearside last season and, on his arrival, Jack Ross handed the captaincy to the youngster for the new season.
However, the 24-year-old has not been as effective since taking the armband in the opening League One game against Charlton Athletic.
With the Black Cats now eight games into the 2018/19 season, questions have to be asked as to whether the captaincy has allowed Honeyman to evade criticism for his poor displays?
Honeyman has struggled to get with the pace of the game in Sunderland’s recent matches, often dwelling on the ball in the middle of the pitch, leaving his defence with work to do.
Given his current form, Honeyman should not be starting in our team. Nor should be be wearing the armband. What leadership qualities does he show? What qualities at all does he show? #SAFC
— Stuart McClelland (@titch471) September 15, 2018
The Prudhoe-born midfielder was at the heart of a lot of Sunderland’s attacking play in the Championship last season, but so far in this campaign Honeyman has struggled with the physical aspect of the third tier.
Ross’s side certainly do not lack leaders, and dropping the youngster for a period of games might also enhance Honeyman’s progression, as well as giving Sunderland’s midfield three a freshness.
Glenn Loovens and Jack Baldwin would certainly be good options to take the armband if Honeyman was to be dropped, and it will be important for the Scottish manager to do what is required to ensure Sunderland get back to winning ways.
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