The surprise omission of club captain George Honeyman from Sunderland’s 25-man squad for their pre-season trip to Portugal was due to injury as reported by the Sunderland Echo.
The report claims Honeyman was left on Wearside to undergo treatment for the knock although they do state this is yet to be officially confirmed by the club.
However, Max Power, who is not expected to be fit for the start of the season, and Aiden McGeady, who is seeking to prove his fitness following a foot injury have both travelled with the squad.
🛫🇵🇹 Ahead of tomorrow's departure, check out our 25-man travelling squad for our tour of Portugal, sponsored by @UKASL.
🗞️ https://t.co/3RGVXmazcD#SAFC #OneClubOurClub pic.twitter.com/GO356NZE40
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) July 16, 2019
Jack Ross’ side is due to play two friendly games against Benfica B and Belenenses while in Portugal and the absence of Honeyman’s name from the list of players travelling caused quite a reaction from supporters on social media and sparked rumours he could be set to leave the Stadium of Light this summer.
Sunderland have had a bid for Walsall midfielder George Dobson recently rejected, and it is unclear whether they will make a revised offer for the twenty-one-year-old.
The Club is known to be currently operating a one in one out transfer policy.
It would be a surprise if Honeyman were set to leave as Jack Ross only recently announced the twenty-four-year-old was retaining the captain’s armband for next season.
Our View
Until the club makes an official announcement, the rumours will continue to swirl.
In light of the backing Ross recently gave him, an injury would seem the most logical explanation.
Nonetheless, this is Sunderland and a departure, although surprising, can not be ruled out.
Honeyman divides opinion on Wearside, and many supporters would not be unhappy to see him leave, especially if it means someone like Maddison is coming in the opposite direction.
