Alex Gilliead has a point to prove to Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez – but can he make his mark during a spell at Sunderland
If Alex Gilliead is to prove that he is worthy of a chance in Newcastle United’s first-team, he needs to show that he can step up and perform at a higher level than he is currently.
The 21-year-old winger has been earning rave reviews since leaving Newcastle for League One Bradford City on loan in the summer, winning the club’s Player of the Month award for September.
But The Chronicle claims that Magpies boss Rafa Benitez wants to see whether Gilliead can step up – and the club would have no shortage of options if they plan to loan the homegrown prospect out to a Championship club instead in the New Year.
The report adds that Millwall and Hull City want to take Gilliead on a short-term deal –as do local rivals Sunderland.
Tyneside to Wearside
It almost goes without saying that staunch Newcastle supporters would not be too happy about the prospect of letting one of their most exciting academy graduates in recent years pull on the red and white strip of their North Eastern enemies.
But would Gilliead’s six-month spell on Wearside be something of a necessary evil?
With a lack of quality in Sunderland’s attack, the Shotley Bridge-born prospect would have a genuine chance of getting regular game at the Stadium of Light – especially with Chris Coleman, a manager renowned for his trust in youth, recently taking over.
And if he replicates his impressive League One form at Championship level, Benitez would surely be more inclined to consider including Gilliead in his first-team plans in the near future.
On paper, this deal could work out perfectly for all parties – even if Gilliead will have to endure his fair share of friendly banter from his fellow Newcastle alumni.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
