Cats strip back their scouting operation
Sunderland’s Scandinavian scout Janne Wilkman has confirmed he has left the club.
Wilkman’s arrival in November 2019 signalled the start of the club’s expansion of their scouting network, with the department having been reduced in number following the club’s relegation to League One.
But the talent-spotter has told Transfermarkt that he has departed the Academy of Light following the coronavirus outbreak.
The former Aston Villa scout was tasked with identifying players from Scandinavia for Sunderland – with the likes of Benji Kimpioka and Joel Asoro having been successful recruits from this area in recent years.
But the Finn has now confirmed that having previously worked remotely, he has now left the club.
“When the coronavirus crisis began, I initially worked from home,” explained Wilkman.
“But then, unfortunately, it was the reason why it ended after such a short time. I hope that this uncertain time will pass as quickly as possible and that football will come back stronger.”
Explaining his role further, the 40-year-old said: “I was responsible for the Scandinavian region and planned scouting activities for this area. “The work was very similar to my time at Aston Villa, where I had worked in various functions for over six years. As a result, I already knew the Scandinavian market very well, which helped me a lot in my new role at Sunderland.”
It remains unclear whether Wilkman will be replaced at the Academy of Light.