Sunderland closed the deal for striker Aaron Connolly earlier this week.

According to SussexWorld’s top sports journalist Derren Howard, new addition Aaron Connolly “will likely be a real asset” to the Black Cats this season.

On Tuesday, the Republic of Ireland striker signed a one-year agreement in the North East after leaving Hull City earlier this summer. The 24-year-old scored eight goals in 28 appearances for the Tigers last season, but has struggled for consistency since making his first-team debut as a youngster for Brighton half a decade ago.

Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman acknowledged Connolly’s uneven record and stated that he needed to re-establish himself as a professional athlete upon his arrival. Despite previously scoring goals in the Premier League and for his national team, he has experienced difficulties. We all respond differently to problems, and we don’t always do it right the first time.

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“At Sunderland, he’ll have the environment and support he needs to perform and showcase his abilities.” It is a vital 17-game span following the next international break, and we feel Aaron can contribute to our squad during that time. We look forward to assisting and supporting him in this journey.”

Howard, who has closely studied Connolly’s career from his early breakthrough, believes that a transfer to the “Stadium of Light” may be the ideal step for the Irishman to restart his stalled career.

According to The Echo, the Seagulls expert witnessed his greatest moment as a Brighton player when he scored twice on his whole debut against Tottenham Hotspur in a 3-0 Premier League victory in 2019. Following a successful stint with the U23s, he was promoted to the senior team by then-manager Graham Potter. It took another ten months for him to score again, this time in an away triumph against Burnley.

“The move to the Premier League was a significant one for Connolly. At his best, he possesses the pace, aggressiveness, and movement to cause issues for most defenders, and his finishing within the box is quite good. It’s no secret that he battled with his fitness at Brighton, and he’s already stated that he wasn’t as devoted to the game as he should have been to compete at the greatest level.

“Working with former Brighton player Liam Rosenior at Hull last season seems to put him back on track, and all indications are that he has developed as a person. Connolly will be a valuable addition to Sunderland as they aim for promotion. At 24, I’m sure he understands how significant this opportunity is for him. Personally, I think he’s an excellent player, and this may be a great move for both parties.”

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