Feeney is relishing a lead role with Cats
New signing Morgan eager to make his voice heard
MORGAN Feeney believes he can bring leadership qualities to Sunderland despite his youth.
The 21-year-old centre-back signed a short-term deal with the Black Cats on Friday after leaving Everton this summer.
Feeney, who captained Everton’s under-23 side to a Premier League Two title and Premier League Cup double in 2019, made two Europa League appearances for the Merseysiders.
He also spent a loan spell in League One with Tranmere Rovers last season before it was cut short due to injury.
Now he is looking forward to making the step up to become a regular first-teamer at Sunderland.
Feeney said: “I would say leadership is a big part of my game.
“I am a vocal player on the pitch and I like to think I can help players through the game, even if they are experienced professionals.
“I would say I have good leadership qualities.
“I am a defender who likes to defend - who likes to tackle and make blocks. I like to play as well, but first and foremost I am a defender and I take pride in clean sheets.
“This is a fresh start for me and I cannot wait to hit the ground running and hopefully play games and bring something to the team.”
Feeney offers Sunderland cover for Bailey Wright at the heart of defence but he can also operate anywhere across their three-man back line.
He has spent the last couple of weeks training at the Academy of Light and impressed Phil Parkinson.
The youngster says he jumped at the chance to join.
He added “I am delighted to join a massive club like Sunderland.
“I am made up to get it over the line. When a club like Sunderland comes in for you, you don’t think twice.
“It is a massive club - the fans, the size of the following they get and the club has huge ambition, like myself.
“I thought a project like this was perfect for me.”
Feeney played around half an hour of Sunderland’s opening pre-season friendly on Saturday, helping the Black Cats to a 3-1 win over Gateshead at the International Stadium.
Chris Maguire, Will Grigg and Josh Scowen netted for the Wearsiders, Jordan Preston for the Heed.
Sunderland have home friendlies against Carlisle United and Harrogate Town this week before the competitive action gets under way when Hull City visit Wearside a week on Saturday in the first round of the Carabao Cup.
Feeney is impatient for the new season to start and for his first chance to play at the Stadium of Light.
He said: “I cannot wait. I am champing at the bit at the moment but hopefully I will not have to wait too long for that to happen.”