Sunderland were in brilliant form last weekend as they overcame the challenge of Lincoln to win 3-1.
The Black Cats have led a revival over the festive period and despite winning just four of Phil Parkinson’s 17 matches in charge, they are now five games unbeaten.
A big part of that has been down to Chris Maguire who has five goal contributions in those outings, but as the transfer window opens, their squad is set to be bolstered by someone already on their books.
In his post-match press conference following the victory over the Imps, Parkinson confirmed that 23-year-old Ethan Robson would be returning from his loan spell with League 2 outfit Grimsby.
This provoked a host of fans to debate the midfielder on Twitter and they were full of praise for his attributes, suggesting Robson should be in the side now he’s been recalled.
A host of supporters drew comparisons with George Dobson, suggesting that the returning midfield man was, in fact, better than one of the players already at Parkinson’s disposal.
Dobson is someone who has divided opinion amongst the fanbase this term so it’s hardly surprising that they’ve taken this opportunity to take a subtle dig at him.
It’s hard to suggest someone who’s been playing in the division below is better than a player who has featured regularly in League 1 but he’s certainly caught the eye with three goals and a solitary assist. Dobson, on the other hand, has no goal involvements all season.
With Parkinson suggesting there had been interest from other clubs about taking him on loan, some fans are keen to see Robson remain in the Black Cats’ team and get a place in the starting XI or the matchday squad.
More comparisons were made with fellow individuals in the side, including Grant Leadbitter. One supporter suggested that the returning loan man offers more than the former Middlesbrough player and it’s hard to speculate against that argument.
The 33-year-old makes fewer tackles, dribbles and key passes per game than Robson. Given those facts, there is certainly a reason to keep him around once he returns to the Stadium of Light.
Two further Sunderland supporters were merely delighted with the news as one claimed it was about time he returned to the club.
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Robson has been impressive with his all-round approach to the game this term, contributing to four goals while making 3.1 tackles per outing in the process.
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