Vic backs Cats set-up but, ‘Lol no’, he's not returning
Former Sunderland striker Victor Anichebe remains an interesting vocal presence on social media.
Anichebe entered into conversation with Black Cats supporters on Instagram following the appointment of sporting director Kristjaan Speakman.
The 41-year-old former Birmingham City academy manager and Derby County coach has been appointed to work above new head coach Lee Johnson, with a firm eye on improving matters at the Stadium of Light.
Many fans took to Instagram to react to the news, with a few supporters asking for clarity over what exactly the role would involve, a question Anichebe was all too happy to answer.
In response to one supporter’s querying of the new role, Anichebe explained: “In charge of everything. Strategy, signings etc just below the CEO.”
The striker – who played u n d e r D av i d M oye s du r - ing Sunderland’s Premier League relegation season – also responded to one fan’s prediction that Speakman may attempt to bring him back to the Stadium of Light.
Anichebe's answer was short, simple and seemingly definitive, as he stated: “Lol no.”
H o w e v e r, o n a s e p a - rate post, the Nigeria international explained he ‘would be open’ to working with Sunderland’s new head coach Johnson on Wearside.
The conversation then moved on again.
One supporter wondered if Speakman’s role would be different from that of the former director of football Roberto Di Fanti – and whether Sunderland would be best served with a traditional manager structure.
The Italian was sacked in 2014 following a disastrousandunsuccessfulspending spree.
Addressing concerns, Anichebe said: “I understand but football has changed so much. Too much money involved. The modern-day managers are coaches and don’t have the time and know-how for everything else.
“They need results quickly or they’re gone, football is that cut-throat now. Whether the manager goes or not, the vision of the club shouldn’t change and that’s why these roles are important.
“Di Fanti was just a poor appointment.”