Mannone made his comeback for Sunderland under-23’s this week, but faces stiff competition from Jordan Pickford to reclaim his place in the side.
Sunderland goalkeeper Vito Mannone has said he is still the number one goalkeeper at the club in his eyes, despite Jordan Pickford impressing in his absence, the Sunderland Echo reports.
Mannone has not played a first team game for the Black Cats since the 2-1 defeat to Middlesbrough back in August, but made a comeback this week for the under-23’s in their 2-1 win over Notts County in the Checkatrade Trophy.
Now the Italian has returned to fitness, he wants to return to the first team, but has admitted he has been impressed by Pickford’s displays while recovering from an elbow injury.
Manchester City’s Sergio Aguero celebrates scoring their first goal as Sunderland’s Vito Mannone looks dejected
Mannone is quoted in the Sunderland Echo, saying: “Yes, Jordan has done OK. Obviously he is a young lad who has come into the team and it is never easy, like any young player who had to come in.
“For me, I left the pitch when I was number 1 and I am still number 1 in my mind.
“I want to be back. I haven’t been fit in the last couple of months and haven’t been on the pitch to compete.”
Sunderland’s Jordan Pickford saves a shot from Bournemouth’s Junior Stanislas
It would certainly be harsh for Pickford to be dropped because Mannone has returned to fitness – especially as Pickford’s ability and his performances have been recognised by those outside of the club, notably with a call-up to the England senior squad.
The thinking is that Mannone should have to earn his place in the side back. He has had to fight for his place in the side at the Stadium of Light once before, and managed to earn it when Sam Allardyce was appointed manager last season – as the Italian ended up fending off competition from Costel Pantilimon – who was subsequently sold to Watford.
Pickford is very popular among the Sunderland supporters and his best years are ahead of him. At this moment in time, it feels as if Mannone should have it all to do to reclaim his place.
England’s Tom Heaton and Jordan Pickford during training
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