Championship rivals Sunderland and Middlesbrough could go head-to-head for free-agent Ethan Galbraith with Michael Carrick hoping to reunite with the former Manchester United youngster at the Riverside.
While the presence of former Old Trafford coach Carrick in the Middlesbrough dugout appears to give one north east rival an advantage over their near neighbours, do not underestimate the appeal of Sunderland to a young player hoping to make his mark in the senior game.
Tony Mowbray’s side came within 180 minutes of a return to the Premier League despite fielding comfortably the youngest average XI in the Championship during 2022/23.
Ethan Galbraith’s fellow Nothern Ireland international Trai Hume has come on leaps and bounds under Mowbray; scoring against Luton Town in the play-off semi-finals. Galbraith, meanwhile, should also receive a glowing testament of the Black Cats if he was to discuss a move to Wearside with one Amad Diallo; the Red Devil wonderkid who dazzled in Sunderland colours during a staggering loan spell.
Sunderland or Middlesbrough for Ethan Galbraith?
22-year-old Galbraith was released by Erik ten Hag’s Man United side in midweek.
The Northern Echo believe that he is unlikely to be a free-agent for long; Sunderland and Middlesbrough ‘preparing offers’ amid interest from other second-tier clubs.
His technical ability and excellent distribution, meanwhile, should appeal to managers in Mowbray and Carrick. Both of whom pride themselves upon a forward-thinking, possession-based style of play.
“Not to put too much pressure on his shoulders,” former Northern Ireland boss Ian Baraclough once told Belfast Live. “But he’s our little (Andres) Iniesta or Xavi. Someone who can get on the ball and manipulate the ball and find positive passes.”
Carrick, meanwhile, may see shades of himself in the 5ft 9ins playmaker, who impressed on loan at Salford City this term.
“My time has come to an end with this magnificent club at Manchester United,” Galbraith said in the week. “I want to thank the club, coaching staff and players for helping me become a better player, a better person and for making me feel at home.
“My earliest ambition as a boy was to become a professional footballer. I’m forever grateful to the club for giving me the opportunity and support to fulfil that dream.
“It’s been a privilege and I feel very fortunate to have been able to represent the club. I step into the next chapter of my career a more mature, rounded person, and I’m excited for what’s next.”
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