Sunderland are hoping to make a strong start to next season.
Sunderland’s Duncan Watmore in action with Watford’s Nathan Ake
Sunderland forward Duncan Watmore has told the Chronicle that they will come back stronger next season.
Sam Allardyce’s side left it late to escape relegation this past season, as they survived with just a game to spare.
It was a regular situation for the North East side, who have regularly been in relegation battles over the past few seasons.
Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce
Much of their struggles have often been based on them starting seasons poorly, with it six years since they won on the opening day and five years since they won in August.
Those are statistics that will have to change if they are to avoid a battle against the drop again next season, and Watmore has promised they will come back from pre-season strongly to ensure a bright start to the campaign.
“The fans were great throughout the season and I enjoyed my football,” he told the Chronicle.
“We could have won more games but hopefully we can do that at the start of next season and make it easier for ourselves. We’ll have a great pre-season, work hard and come back stronger.”
Watford’s Ben Watson in action with Sunderland’s Duncan Watmore
It will be interesting to see what role Watmore has to play in the Sunderland team next season.
Sam Allardyce is expected to be busy adding to his squad in the summer transfer window, and that could see the youngster pushed down the pecking order.
It would be surprising to see that happen though, with him having had a positive influence whenever he’s feature for the Black Cats and highly rated by the club.
Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce reacts
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