THE SECRET SCOUT

Our scout is a top football expert who attends matches each week searching for the next star. He’ll bring you his verdict in Sportsmail.

WHAT HAS HE GOT?

THIS tall Midlander on loan in the North East has been an important figure in Sunderland’s run of success. He is a defender who starts on the right-hand side of two centre backs in a back four. Using his physique to good advantage, he proved to be strong in the air in a game I watched as he defended his penalty area. Right-footed, he covered the area between his right back, reading situations quickly and moving into the space when his team-mate was tackled. He was not tested for pace by his opposing number, who was tall and strong but immobile. When Sunderland’s keeper fielded a low shot, he showed awareness by rushing to protect him from an incoming forward. Then, after a dribbling run left him stranded, he recovered brilliantly by maximising his strength. When he played the ball to his full back, he immediately dropped deeper to make himself available in case his team-mate could not

find a forward pass.

WHAT DOES HE NEED?

ON a couple of occasions his timing was amiss as he climbed over his striker and gave away unnecessary free-kicks. But this centre back is very athletic and will improve his positioning with experience. He played 90 minutes here without ever being exposed. He ventured into the opponents’ box for a couple of free-kicks and was difficult to deal with. Only 21, if he does not rejoin Wolves I can see him staying as a regular for Sunderland. He will only get better.