Benjamin Kimpioka made his Sunderland debut at the Stadium of Light in Tuesday’s 2-2 League One draw with Peterborough United.
After a couple of toxic years at the Stadium of Light, there is a slight feel-good factor back at Sunderland.
Jack Ross has the club pulling in the right direction at last, while the array of locally sourced talent has given these frequently disillusioned fans something to look forward to.
George Honeyman is the captain these days, while Bali Mumba and Denver Hume have made their mark. Josh Maja, the 19-year-old centre-forward, has scored eight goals in 11 League One games.
The signs suggest that Benjamin Kimpioka could make a similar impact. The Swedish starlet is one of the most exciting prospects on Wearside and apparently courted the interest of Arsenal last year.
Speaking to Sunderland’s official website, Ross has passed judgement on the winger after his eye-catching debut in Tuesday’s 2-2 draw with Peterborough United.
“Benji is an enigma at times,” the former St Mirren boss said. “He has really good attributes to his game, so it’s about trying to piece it all together.”
“I’m delighted for him that he’s made his league debut, as it’s a big thing for a young man.
“Even in those few minutes on the park he showed he’s got attributes that, if he keeps working hard when he’s with the under-23s, he’s got every chance of getting more opportunities as the season unfolds.”
18-year-old Kimpioka has really impressed at youth level for Sunderland, making six appearances for the U23s this season. He scored a hat-trick in an U18 victory against Newcastle United in November last year, too.
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