One of the most important players for Tony Mowbray is this Sunderland academy alumnus.
Several fallen giants, including Sunderland, are making an effort to return to the Premier League following a six-year ban, four years in England’s third division, and a relegation to League One.
The Black Cats have emerged from the wreckage to contend for the automatic promotion slots, and they are currently facing off against the best teams in the Championship.
While the addition of bright young players to their roster since their relegation to the second division—Pierre Ekwah, Daniel Ballard, Jack Clarke, and most recently, Jobe Bellingham—has increased their prospects of winning back the championship. These players are the components of Tony Mowbray’s formula for success.
A number of players from Sunderland’s renowned junior setup have sprung onto the scene, seeing their worth soar. The most recent example is 16-year-old Chris Rigg, but he’s not the first 2007 graduate to break into the first team—the young player scored in the 5-0 thumping of Southampton.
Dan Neil has had a significant influence at the Stadium of Light since making his breakthrough in the 2020–21 season. He has solidified his place in the middle of their midfield and been instrumental in the team’s recent successes.
What was the first salary of Dan Neil’s career?
Dan Neil, who was born in South Shield, was taken from Hebburn Town juniors when he was eight years old. Raised as a Black Cats fan, he dreamed of funding his childhood team.
After advancing quickly through the youth ranks and making an impression for the U18s and U23s before being called up to the main squad during an injury-time victory against Swindon, the 5 foot 10 star would soon realize those goals in March 2021.
Although the young player had a few opportunities to shine, most notably in the EFL Trophy, Neil’s big break came in the 2021–2022 season when he made 39 appearances in League One and was a crucial factor in Sunderland’s return to the second division.
The budding talent led his hometown team to win against Lincoln City in the Papa John Trophy in one game, but more significantly, talkSPORT pundit Ian Danter likened him to Manchester United legend Michael Carrick.
“His performance brought back memories of the first time I watched Michael Carrick manage a game at Molineux for Swindon while he was on loan,” the guy stated. Really amazing, and a beautiful goal as well.
What is Dan Neil’s current worth?
Neil’s development from a promising homegrown prospect to an increasingly influential Championship midfielder has been facilitated by dedication, a never-ending drive for improvement, and, most importantly, excellent coaching in a nurturing environment. Neil even put on a Carrick-esque performance at one point.
Since making his first-team debut, the 21-year-old has gained a lot of praise. According to Football Transfers, his expected transfer value (xTV) has increased, from roughly £950k (€1.1m) in September 2022—following their promotion-winning campaign—to approximately £5.4m (€6.3m) as of right now.
What is Dan Neil’s season-long performance like?
Sunderland’s midfield maestro has become one of the best midfield players in the Championship this year, putting aside a questionable red card against, ironically, Carrick’s Middlesbrough last weekend. He thrives as the center of attention in Mowbray’s midfield and displays an amazing passing range.
When comparing his ball-playing skills to his Championship positional peers, the Black Cats academy graduate is even more impressive. According to FBref, he ranks in the top 1% for progressive carries, top 11% for pass completion, top 4% for successful take-ons, and top 9% for non-penalty goals. These dominant performances prove Danter was correct to compare him to Carrick.
Pierre Ekwah’s presence has helped the young player advance in the first squad by acting as the partnership’s destructive ball-winner, which allows Neil’s technical skills to blossom.
In the center of Mowbray’s midfield, the two have developed a vital relationship, but Sunderland has missed the balance that the Frenchman offers since his injury.
