Sunderland Football Club fans wouldn’t have thought life could have been much worse after being relegated from the Premier League a few seasons ago. However, after facing yet another relegation to the EFL League One, and being unable to climb their way back to the Championship, things aren’t getting much better. Fans are ‘confused and deflated’ (Roker Report).
In fact, supporters should be worried about dropping down even further in English football’s pecking order. Since coming to the team, Phil Parkinson has earned seven points from a potential 18. With just 29 games left to play in the league, Sunderland are on track to earn just 33 more points (WhoScored.com). That would bring their total points tally of the season to just 59. But with 26 of those points coming under previous manager Jack Ross, Parkinson is close to relegation form.
Are Sunderland getting worse?
Yes
No
Luckily for Sunderland 59 points would likely be enough to keep them afloat, with the 21st placed team in the last three seasons earning 47 points, 47 points and 44 points (Sky Sports). However, this is so far off their 100-point objective that they set prior to the season. It is also nowhere near the tally needed to reach the promotion play-offs either.
If the board were to keep Parkinson for another season they could put a return to the Championship even further out of reach. At the end of the day, Parkinson’s time at Sunderland looks short-lived. However, regarding the club’s ownership, one must question if they will be able to rectify the mistakes they’ve made? Is it too late for Sunderland? Is the hole too deep?
Many things need to change before the club can even dream of starting their push towards Premier League football. But one thing is certain. The owners must act now before the scenario becomes even more out of hand. The situation isn’t getting better. It’s getting worse. Much worse.