Simon Grayson reacts as Brendan Galloway – his first Sunderland signing – makes his debut

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Sunderland boss Simon Grayson has commented on Brendan

Sunderland boss Simon Grayson has told the Sunderland Echo that he felt Brendan Galloway ‘did okay’ on his debut for the club against Hibernian on Sunday.

After coming from 2-0 down to beat Bury in Grayson’s first game as manager on Friday night, Sunderland travelled to Easter Road on Sunday for a friendly against Hibs.

Simon Grayson

Wahbi Khazri and Jeremain Lens had put Sunderland 2-0 up, but this time it was the Black Cats who squandered their lead, with Martin Boyle and Simon Murray finding the net.

Sunderland had to settle for a 2-2 draw, but Grayson will be happy with run-out for his players, as he was able to name two different line-ups, making 11 changes at the break.

One player to come on at half time was new signing Brendan Galloway, who joined the club from Everton last week as Grayson’s first signing since becoming Sunderland boss.

The young defender featured at left back against Hibernian, and whilst he was on the pitch for both of Hibernian’s goals, Grayson seems happy with the youngster.

Grayson told the Sunderland Echo that he thought Galloway ‘did okay’ considering that it was his debut, and believes he will only get better for the Black Cats moving forward.

Brendan Galloway in action

Grayson added that Galloway’s versatility will be key given that he has played 3-5-2 a lot over his managerial career, noting that he can play as a left-sided centre back.

“I thought he did okay. He was comfortable on the ball, defended well and got forward effectively at times,” said Grayson. “To say it was the first time he has been with the group, he’s only going to get better for us.”

“He’s a left-back that can play centre-half. You want versatile players. He can play on the left side of a three because I’ve played 3-5-2 quite a bit in my time. Players that are athletic, flexible and versatile are going to be a big bonus for us,” he added.

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