Title: Tony Mowbray Optimistic About Ross Stewart’s Return and Future at Sunderland
Introduction
Sunderland manager Tony Mowbray is holding on to the hope that striker Ross Stewart will make a comeback this season and potentially sign a new long-term contract with the club. Despite being out with an Achilles heel injury since January, Mowbray believes Stewart has the potential to become a club hero in the mold of Niall Quinn. This article explores Stewart’s injury, contract situation, and Mowbray’s optimistic outlook for his return.
Stewart’s Injury and Contract Situation
Ross Stewart, who recently turned 27, sustained an Achilles heel injury against Fulham in an FA Cup fourth-round replay last season. As he enters the final year of his contract, Stewart has not yet taken up Sunderland’s new offers and was expected to move to another club this summer. However, with no serious bids received and Stewart still recovering from his injury, Mowbray remains hopeful about his return.
Mowbray’s Optimism
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Stewart’s contract, Mowbray spoke highly of the Scotland international’s abilities. Stewart had an impressive record of scoring ten goals in eleven Championship starts during the injury-interrupted 2022-23 season. Mowbray expressed his belief that Stewart would be ready to play by the end of September and emphasized his importance to the team’s success.
The Possibility of a New Contract
Mowbray believes that if Stewart performs well and enjoys playing for Sunderland, there is a possibility of him signing a new contract. The manager highlighted the importance of winning matches, scoring goals, and receiving support from the fans as factors that could influence Stewart’s decision. Mowbray acknowledged that while there is no guarantee, the possibility of a new contract remains open as long as Stewart is still with the club.
Sunderland’s Support and Stewart’s Worth
Mowbray emphasized the need to make Stewart feel valued and appreciated at Sunderland, stating that it is not solely about financial incentives. He expressed his hope that the fans would rally behind Stewart and that he would continue to score goals for the team. Mowbray also acknowledged Stewart’s worth as a player, highlighting his physicality, goal-scoring ability, and versatility on the field.
Drawing Inspiration from Niall Quinn
Mowbray drew inspiration from Sunderland legend Niall Quinn, suggesting that Stewart could follow in his footsteps and become a club hero. He mentioned the possibility of having a “Stewart Bar” in the future, underscoring his belief in the striker’s potential impact on the club’s history.
Stewart’s Perspective
While Mowbray’s optimism may seem ambitious, Stewart may view it as an encouraging interpretation. As it stands, the 19-year-old summer signing Luis Semedo, also known as Hemir, is set to make his debut in attack for Sunderland. However, Stewart’s return would provide much-needed experience and depth to the team’s striking options.
Conclusion
Tony Mowbray remains hopeful about Ross Stewart’s return to the Sunderland squad this season. Despite his injury and contract situation, Mowbray believes in Stewart’s abilities and sees him as a potential long-term asset for the club. The manager’s optimism draws inspiration from Sunderland’s rich history and the possibility of Stewart becoming a club hero. As the season progresses, fans eagerly await Stewart’s return and hope to witness his impact on the team’s success.