Niall Quinn: Ricky Sbragia is not a stop-gap boss

Mar 29 2009 by James Hunter, Sunday Sun

“We were in a difficult situation when he took over but he has got us looking somewhat healthier and now he just has to finish it off by keeping us in the Premiership and finishing as high in the table as possible.”

Although Premier League safety is by no means guaranteed just yet, Sunderland have already started making plans for next season and Sbragia will be travelling to Europe this week to run the rule over potential summer signings.

Quinn added: “Ricky’s scouting network is in full swing looking at players for the summer.

“And he is going to see a couple of players play in international games next week.

“We want to build on Ricky’s first few months in management and give him some money to spend in the summer.”

Quinn has reduced season ticket prices for the new campaign by at least £30, with adult tickets costing from £350.

And he has also introduced a pioneering scheme which offers a £19 season ticket — just £1 per game — for under-16s who are accompanied by an adult.

Quinn said: “I suppose there are two things that will go a long way towards deciding matters — firstly, retaining our Premier League status and secondly season ticket numbers. The season ticket sales will tell us how the recession has affected us; it will tell us what we have to do to react and ultimately it will tell us what we have in the summer to trade with.

“If we can show Ellis that we are supporting the club in numbers, he will see that it is worthwhile investing in it. And down the line we can all share success together.”

:: FANS have until Friday, April 3, to buy season tickets at the early-bird offer prices. Call 0871-911 1973 or go to www.safc.com for more details.