Alan Curbishley rumours denied by Niall Quinn
Apr 17 2009 by Mark Douglas, The Journal
RICKY Sbragia has brushed off the latest round of speculation surrounding his future – revealing that his plans for next season are already at an advanced stage despite claims he is on the verge of the sack.
Sunderland’s free-fall into the relegation fight has raised questions about Sbragia’s suitability to lead the Black Cats out of trouble, and the club’s shocking form was the basis for a national newspaper report this week claiming Alan Curbishley would take control in the next few days.
It comes in the same week as Sunderland strike duo Djibril Cissé and Kenwyne Jones were linked with moves away from Wearside.
The Curbishley story has already been knocked down by senior sources at the club, but it prompted a call from chairman Niall Quinn to his manager on Tuesday morning to reassure Sbragia there was no truth in it.
That was good enough proof for the Sunderland boss, who says he trusts Quinn to be honest with him if the club decide on a new direction.
The pair have already discussed summer recruitment and pre-season plans.
As for Spurs being linked to Jones again, it will be no surprise to anyone that Harry Redknapp retains an interest in a player he sanctioned a bid of £15m for in the summer. But Sbragia is certain that the club’s prize asset remains committed to the Black Cats.
Similarly, claims of interest from Portsmouth and Greek side Panathinaikos in Sunderland’s on-loan striker Cissé have been given short shrift by Sbragia.
He said the timing of the reports was “inconvenient”.
“It’s all media speculation. People can write what they want, I’m still manager of Sunderland FC,” he said.
“I speak to Niall daily, sometimes twice a day and he’s always been honest with me.
