'We sensed an opportunity' - Sunderland chief admits Romaine Mundle surprise

Sunderland have completed the permanent signing of Romaine Mundle, and Kristjaan Speakman seems as surprised as anyone.

Kristjaan Speakman says Romaine Mundle was an opportunistic signing by Sunderland and they were surprised he was even available.

Mundle became Sunderland’s second signing of the January transfer window, joining in a £2million deal from Belgian club Standard Liege.

He had only been there a few months though after beating Sunderland to his signature last summer, but financial pressures have forced them to move him on.

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Speakman says he was a player the club have tracked for some time, and their determination to be highly selective in the transfer market left them in a financial position to move – and so they did.

He also said he is expecting big things from the former Spurs winger, but only perhaps after a settling in period.

“Talented players like Romaine are highly sought after and we saw this first hand in the summer when he left Tottenham Hotspur,” Speakman said.

“We didn’t anticipate him being available on a permanent basis, but when we sensed an opportunity, we moved quickly and decisively to make it happen - our ways of working and structure are a real strength in these moments.

“This is an important step in Romaine's career following a spell overseas and we look forward to helping him settle, as he makes Sunderland his new home.

“He’s got a bright future ahead of him as part of an exciting squad, and we look forward to working with him.”

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