Lynden Gooch is relishing the chance to play Championship football with the Black Cats next season. The Sunderland academy graduate has given an insight into how close he came to leaving the club on Deadline Day in January last season.
However, since Alex Neil's arrival, the 26-year-old has gone from strength to strength. Gooch was one of the first names on the team sheet as a result of his fine displays towards the back end of the campaign and was rewarded with a new two-year deal to stay at the Stadium of Light.
Speaking to safc.com, Gooch said: "I'm delighted, it's taken a bit longer than I'd have liked but I'm happy that it's done. Six months I didn't know if I was going to be here any longer, so I'm really pleased to have signed a new two-year deal.
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"On deadline day in January I thought I might well be leaving the club, so it's been a whirlwind. But since the gaffer has come in, I've used that as a fresh opportunity again.
"I've got a really good relationship with him and I'm looking forward to continuing playing for him. It feels good to be back and I'll be ready to go. I’m looking forward to being back in the Championship and hopefully we can make it a good campaign. I want to prove myself again.”
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