New Sunderland boss sends Coventry City ‘ferocious’ message ahead of clash

In his debut game in charge against Coventry City, Sunderland’s “ferocious” fans, according to new manager Michael Beale, will be crucial.

The Sky Blues will travel to the Stadium of Light for the kickoff on Saturday at 3 p.m. Bobby Thomas saved a crucial point for Mark Robins’ team in their most recent match, a 1-1 draw with Leeds United at Elland Road.

They now have to contend with another challenging test, as Beale will be managing Sunderland for the first time. After losing three of their previous six games, teams are reported to experience a “new manager bounce” after hiring a new manager.

A new man enters, and the players wipe the slate clean, trying their hardest to impress him. “I think the key thing they [supporters] want is a team that wins on the pitch and is exciting to watch,” Beale said to Sunderland’s club media prior to the match. On the field, I believe we will need to combat their energy, but it starts with us.

Thus, it’s critical that the staff and I provide them the enthusiasm and energy. We have the strongest fan base in the Championship, and I have no doubt that they will support us both at home and away. This will be crucial going forward.

“It’s a young squad, there’s an element of the Championship being unpredictable and certainly us having to have some patience with the team at times but together we’re strong so it’s important that the fans and the players together are united moving forward.”

Following a brief stay at Rangers, Beale was appointed by the Black Cats and stated, “My family and I are very happy to be joining the club. The club is really large. Beginning work has everyone, including the staff and players, very excited.

“I’m incredibly excited about the team’s potential and the level of play they’ve been showing recently, as well as earlier under Tony [Mowbray].” Beginning with the start of the current season and the play-offs last year.”