In an exclusive interview with Football FanCast, Kevin Phillips, who made 513 career appearances, has been impressed with on-loan Wolves defender Dion Sanderson and wants to see him at Sunderland again next season.
Sanderson has impressed at the Stadium of Light this season making 22 appearances in all competitions and helping to shore up a previously leaky Sunderland defence.
Should Sunderland sign Sanderson permanently?
Yes, he’s been great!
No, there are better options!
Phillips believes if the 21-year old was to return next summer on loan or permanently, he would continue to improve as a player with the Black Cats.
The defender has started the club’s previous 12 league games, keeping seven clean sheets in the process, including two against promotion rivals Portsmouth and Ipswich Town.
Speaking on Sanderson’s form this season and why he would like to see him back on Wearside next season, Phillips told FFC exclusively:
“Yeah, he’s impressed me. I think over the last six weeks, he’s probably been one of the best defenders, alongside Luke O’Nien, they’ve formed a good partnership in the centre of that defence.
“He’s been very impressive and has looked assured and confident on the ball.
“I hope that he finishes the season strongly and helps them go up. I’d love to see him stay at the club next year because I think he’ll just continue to get better.”
Sanderson was, unfortunately, cup-tied for their Papa John’s Trophy final victory over Tranmere after playing in the same competition for Wolves’ U23s earlier this season, but returned against Accrington on Wednesday in a 2-0 win and yet another clean sheet.