Alan is a vastly experienced centre-back who played nearly 40 games in the top flight last season for a team that qualified for the Champions League. A player of his proven quality will be a great asset to us. |
And the players feel like that, the fans feel like that and the board will feel like that. It is not just me. It really knocks the stuffing out of you. |
At the end of it, it is about having the wherewithal to keep the ball at times, but then to defend that last set-piece, and we didn't manage to do it, |
At the minute, it is very, very tough, |
Groundhog Day. I don't think we deserved to be beaten. |
He came over and we had a chat to him and his representatives. He's a very good Swiss midfield player who can do a number of jobs in the midfield. He played against us (Ireland) three years ago and Dave Bowman (Sunderland's chief scout) watched both of Ireland's games against the Swiss in the last World Cup qualifying. |
He did really well while training with us and I believe that he will improve with full-time training. I expect him to push for the first team. |
He has some useful Premiership and Champions League experience and his versatility provides me with cover, |
He rattled Edgar Davids with his first challenge and that set the tone for his whole performance. |
He'll be here hopefully at some stage, |
I ain't walking away, no chance. |
I can't take a great deal out of the game with what's happened in the last minutes, |
I don't care where we go off to this year - but I will be going on May 8 and not after the play-off final! |
I have never seen it, I have never been offered and never been asked. If he has got something to tell, then he should tell the authorities. |
I leave with a smile. I've enjoyed every bit of it because it's been a pleasure to manage this club. I'm sure I've got those who support me and there will be people who think otherwise. I've done my best. |