League One hopefuls Sunderland have signed experienced centre-back Joel Lynch on a free transfer from Championship outfit Queens Park Rangers.
It’s fair to say Joel Lynch hasn’t arrived at Sunderland with a glowing reputation.
The 31-year-old centre-back replaced Glenn Loovens at the Stadium of Light on Monday, joining Jack Ross’ side on a free transfer. But there’s a reason why Queens Park Rangers decided to let him go after three years and almost 100 appearances in the Championship.
Lynch was hardly a fans’ favourite at Loftus Road with his penchant for a high-profile error or costly lapse in concentration costing QPR on more than one occasion.
And judging by the reaction from those in West London, the experienced centre-back might not be the inspired addition he looks on paper.
Then again, Lynch probably wasn’t signed to start week-in-week-out for Ross’ side. Alim Ozturk and summer signing Jordan Willis have started to gain an impressive understanding together at the back, establishing themselves as Sunderland’s first-choice central defensive partnership.
Lynch, however, will add some much-needed depth and experience after the departure of veteran Loovens. With 41 games to go in a gruelling League One campaign, The Black Cats need all the players they can get.
But don’t expect Lynch to immediately turn Sunderland into title favourites.
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