'Exceptional talent' Dan Neil signs new long-term Sunderland deal

Sunderland have continued to tie down their top young talents ,with Dan Neil committing his long-term future to the club.

Author:
Michael Graham
Publish date:
Mar 21, 2023 2:56 PM EDT

Dan Neil has signed an extension to his contract at Sunderland, committing his long-term future to his boyhood club.

Neil has become a vital part of the team this season and has already just five appearances short of the 100 mark despite being just 21-years-old.

Sunderland Nation exclusively revealed earlier this month that the midfielder was close to agreeing a new deal with the Black Cats and the club have confirmed that has now been signed.

“I’m excited to be extending my time here – I’ve really enjoyed myself so far and I feel like I’m learning and developing, which is what I want at my age having broken into the first team,” Neil said, who is now contracted to Sunderland until 2026.

“All my family are Sunderland fans, so I have immense pride playing for the Club. I always said I wanted to try and help this Club get back to where it belongs and signing this contract will give me an opportunity to help do that.”

The new contract continues Sunderland’s work in tying down their best talent to long-term deals, and sporting director Kristjaan Speakman has described Neil as an ‘exceptional talent.’

“Dan’s progression has been impressive and he’s an integral part of our team,” Speakman said. “It’s fantastic to see players flourish from our academy programme and Dan is a great representation of what young players can achieve here.

“He is an exceptionally talented midfielder who’s only getting better and naturally this doesn’t go unnoticed. He is immensely passionate about Sunderland and he understands and believes in what we are building, so all at SAFC are delighted that he has reaffirmed his commitment to the Club.”

Read more Sunderland news