It appears that “Big John” Ruddy is close to joining newest division rivals Sunderland. A few weeks back it seemed he was Premier League bound with primarily West Ham and Brighton reportedly interested in his services.
Reports surfaced last night about Sunderland closing in on the former Everton and Norwich player from HITC Sport
Ruddy was released earlier this month in an attempt to cut the team wage bill.
I personally believe John is past his prime and his good performances from the past are way back in the memory of supporters. He is adequate for this level but I would agree with Stuart Webber in taking chances with Gunn and Mathews – assuming McGovern is also on the move.
Sunderland recently sold Jordan Pickford to Everton for a staggering £30 million – yes, you read that correctly. So they could be thinking about giving John a shot as number one without having financial hitches to pay the wages, his agent is almost certainly demanding. At 30 years old he is still “young” for a goalkeeper.
It always seems better when departing players do not join division rivals, but in this case I must admit I don`t feel too bad. John may still have a couple of years left at a high level, but it`s clear that we already got the best out of him, and he is past his prime.
Best of luck “Big John”, it seems we might see you at Carrow Road once again in August.
OTC