One player has received a lot of acclaim for their effort in Sunderland’s defeat to Birmingham City yesterday.
Sunderland did take the lead owing to a Blues defensive error, but the Black Cats were unable to prevent the hosts from mounting a remarkable comeback and eventually returned to Wearside empty-handed.
Jack Clarke was, predictably, one of the few bright spots in Sunderland’s dismal performance, but there was another name that stood out at St Andrews.
Romaine Mundle received his first start since joining the club from Standard Liege last month.
The winger had previously made two cameo appearances, but Patrick Roberts’ most recent injury gave him the opportunity to shine right away.
Mundle was undoubtedly Sunderland’s most lively attacker in the first half, and he came incredibly close to scoring with a wonderful curling effort that forced a fantastic save from John Ruddy.
The 20-year-old was less noticeable in the second half before being replaced by Abdoullah Ba, but he still garnered a lot of plaudits.
Sunderland Echo journalist Phil Smith rated him the day’s joint-highest rating (7), writing: “Had a terrific first half, nearly scoring with a nice effort and flashing one brilliant cross goal that Burstow should have scored.
“Looks very exciting, though didn’t impact the second half before his withdrawal.”
Should we get excited about Romaine Mundle?
Romaine Mundle does not have much senior football experience, but he appears to be a player with a lot of potential who might become extremely significant for us if managed well.
The Tottenham Hotspur academy graduate had 34 touches in the Midlands, completing nine passes, one successful dribble, and two shots on goal. He also won four ground duels and attempted two effective tackles.
Mundle’s effect was minimal, but I believe that was due to the lack of quality around him; yet, his determination to run at people and get into the box was very promising.
While Roberts’ departure will be significant, it will ideally provide Mundle with an opportunity to play in the team and offer a creative spark to our faltering frontline. He could be the winger we rely on when Jack Clarke is sold in the summer, so we need to see some rapid progress if he is to fill his teammate’s shoes next season.
