Sunderland legend Kevin Phillips has praised new signing Kyle Lafferty and believes he could have a real impact at the club this season, as reported by Football Insider.
The Black Cats hero has claimed that Lafferty could be the difference in the second half of the campaign with his physicality and clinical goalscoring touch.
Sunderland’s form has improved in recent weeks having won four of their last five games and they are now sixth in League One and eyeing up a real promotion challenge. However, the division is extremely clustered and they are only a few points clear of mid-table and know they need to maintain their good form.
Club legend Phillips thinks that Lafferty’s reputation and proven goalscoring record could be crucial. “I think it’s a good free signing,” the ex-England international said.
“Of course he’s experienced – I think certainly in League One it’ll be difficult but he’s built for that kind of tough league. It’s physical but he’s a big, strong, powerful lad.”
“He’s got an eye for goal and Sunderland haven’t scored that many goals this season – I was there at the weekend against Wycombe Wanderers on January 11th and watched them score four, but I thought they were excellent.”
“Anyone going in there now who could potentially help them secure a play-off spot or automatic promotion – if he can go in and score the goals to get them there he’ll make himself a club legend straight away. For a free signing, with his experience, I think it’s invaluable.”
Although the Northern Irish international hasn’t enjoyed much regular club football he has been very prolific for his country and there is no doubt his experience could be vital for the Mackems.
