Cats must lose dead wood – but some players must stay

SUNDERLAND favourite Alex Rae says the club’s squad needs a complete overhaul this summer – but would like to see George Honeyman and Paddy McNair stay at the club.

With the Black Cats’ fate now sealed, they can start to plan for next season in League One with a bit more clarity.

And two players who Coleman has openly identified that he would like to keep at the Stadium of Light next season are Honeyman and McNair – with the Sunderland boss going as far as to say it was ‘imperative’ they convinced former Manchester United player McNair to remain.

Coleman would also like to keep young stars Lynden Gooch, Joel Asoro and Josh Maja, with a contract offer on the table for Gooch and Honeyman, and one to follow for Asoro and Maja.

Asked about the current playing squad after the club’s relegation, Rae told BetStars: “If you were to ask the players (who’s been the best player) they would say the young lad George Honeyman (pictured right), who has had a good year.

“Other than that, I don’t think many of the players can come out with a lot of credit. The place needs a total clean out. They’ve had players there for many years now.

“They’ve got [George] Honeyman – who has been good but in the main there hasn’t been too many standouts in this season.

“They should try and keep the guys like Paddy McNair and build the team from there.”