Aaron Connolly's Sunderland role outlined as Kristjaan Speakman explains challenge

Aaron Connolly
-Credit: (Image: DeFodi Images via Getty Images)


New Sunderland signing Aaron Connolly “needs an opportunity to re-establish himself and to reset the perception of him as a professional athlete.”

That’s the view of the club’s sporting director Kristjaan Speakman after attracting the Republic of Ireland international to the Black Cats where he has signed a one-year contract. Connolly, 24, has seen his career go off the rails somewhat after bringing attention to himself in the Premier League with Brighton & Hove Albion in 2019.

He spent three years out on loan before joining Hull City and scoring eight goals in 13 Championship starts last season.

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Speakman said: “Aaron needs an opportunity to re-establish himself and to reset the perception of him as a professional athlete. It wasn’t long ago that he was scoring goals in the Premier League and playing for his national team, but he has suffered some setbacks.

“We all handle challenges differently and when it comes to responding, sometimes we don’t get it right immediately. At Sunderland, he’ll have the environment and support to perform and an opportunity to showcase his ability. It’s an important 17-game period following the next international break and we believe Aaron can add value to our squad during that period. We look forward to helping him settle and supporting him in that process.”

Following his arrival, Connolly said: “I feel very privileged to sign for Sunderland. I have only been up here for a short while, but it’s easy to see what this club means to people and the atmosphere on Saturday showed that.

“I want to represent that in the right way and pay back the faith the club has placed in me by playing well and doing what I love more than anything, which is scoring goals. I’m ready to move forward with my career after facing some challenges in recent times and I fully understand the huge opportunity I have ahead of me.”