Sunderland legend Kevin Phillips believes Jack Diamond will have a similar impact to Elliot Embleton when he returns from his Harrogate Town loan spell.
Embleton was part of the Blackpool side that won promotion to the Championship last year and the Black Cats are now reaping the rewards of his success.
The 22-year-old has been one of the first names on Lee Johnson's team sheet since returning for pre-season and Phillips is hoping that Diamond will have a similar impact when he returns.
Diamond has re-joined the League Two side on a season-long loan after enjoying a loan spell with Town during the 2019-20 campaign when Harrogate went on to win the National League play-offs.
Phillips told Football Insider: “This season is massive for Diamond.
“If he goes there and performs then hopefully he will come back and be a part of things next season. He needs to put in performances week in and week out down there.
“Sunderland are reaping the rewards of Embleton’s loan to Blackpool last season and there’s no reason why the same can't happen with Diamond.
“Diamond will also be looking back at Sunderland at the likes of Dan Neil and hoping he can emulate him next season. Neil looks like a very exciting player. Hopefully Neil’s progression will spur Diamond on to succeed at Harrogate.
“If that happens then Sunderland may have a top young player on their hands. It is a big season for him.”
