Jack Ross says Elliot Embleton is ready to become a “valuable member” of his first-team after signing a new two-year contract.
To have one of their own commit to stay is a psychological boost for Sunderland , particularly after the 20-year-old midfielder made them sweat on it.
Embleton , from Durham, has been with the academy since the age of six, and played for England from under-17, to under-20 level.
He ran down his contract this summer, but playing in Thursday’s pre-season friendly at South Shields was an indication that he wanted to stay.
“I’ve been here my entire life, so I’m buzzing to be staying,” Embleton said.
The Durham-born player showed in a loan spell at Grimsby Town last season he can add flair and technical ability in the middle of the field, and his time at Blundell Park has reassured manager Ross he is ready to play a full part in the senior squad.
“Elliot is a talented player and I’m delighted that he has committed his future to the club,” Ross commented. “He gained valuable experience last season during his loan spell at Grimsby Town, maturing as both a player and a person, and I believe he’s ready to step up and become a valuable member of our first-team squad.”
Embleton made his senior debut as a substitute at Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2017, the first of four appearances for the Black Cats. He made 30 in all competitions for Grimsby before having his season cut short by injury, and scored four goals.
