Browning hails quality of Cats’ class act McGeady
SUNDERLAND’S Tyias Browning has hailed the impact of fellow Black Cats new boy Aiden McGeady ahead of this weekend’s clash with Barnsley, writes STUART JAMIESON.
Both arrived from Everton this summer, Browning on a season-long loan while winger McGeady joined on a permanent deal.
The 31-year-old Republic of Ireland international worked under Simon Grayson at Preston last season and has already shown his ability with some impressive performances in a Sunderland shirt.
Defender Browning, who was set to return to the side at Oakwell today after sitting out the midweek Carabao Cup win over Carlisle, admits it is great to have a player with his talents in the squad.
He said of McGeady: “He has come in and made a big impact.
“He has shown his qualities in the games he has played.
“He is exciting – it is exciting for me to watch so it gives the fans something to look forward to.”
Sunderland head to Barnsley looking to bounce back from the 2-0 home defeat at Leeds – although the Black Cats are currently unbeaten away from home this season.
Three points would come as a major boost, the international break meaning the first team will have two weeks without a game after this weekend. Barnsley will provide a tough test - but Browning is confident of success.
He added: “I know they are a young, energetic team.
“No game is easy in the Championship, everyone can beat everyone.
“I am sure it will be a difficult game but hopefully we can come out with the win.
“We saw at Norwich and Sheffield the away fans travel in numbers, so that will be helpful for us.
“Hopefully, this game will give us a bit of momentum ahead of the international break.
“We have a lot of games in September, so hopefully we can put more points on the board.”
Browning was expected to return to the starting 11 at Oakwell after being rested for the midweek cup clash, the defender eager to get more minutes under his belt.
He said: “It is nice to get a rest but you want to be involved in as many games as possible, certainly at my age.
“It was a good opportunity for some of the lads who have have not been getting the minutes and they want to prove a point.
“It was a good start to the season, a bit up and down, but it is not the worst start – it could have been a lot better but it could have been a lot worse.
“Everyone has gelled together. Everyone has made everyone else feel very welcome and hopefully we can push on.”