Sunderland under-21s lead coach Graeme Murty has firmly dismissed speculation linking him to the vacant managerial role at Hartlepool United, instead reiterating his commitment to his current role.
The former Reading and Rangers manager emphasised his focus on developing young talent at Sunderland, despite interest following Darren Sarll’s departure from Hartlepool.
Murty: “You Can’t Be Half In”
Since joining Sunderland in 2022, Murty has made significant strides with the under-21s, guiding the team to last season’s Premier League 2 play-off final. His commitment to the club remains unwavering, even as rumours circulated regarding a potential move to the non-league side.
“It’s not something I concern myself with. I just really want to do a very good job. When I first applied for the (Sunderland) job, I saw the potential of the club… We’ve got a fanatical fan base, and there’s room for really, really huge growth. So regardless of personal interest or recognition, I think we’re all excited by the potential we see within the club and what the future might hold,” Murty said.
Murty’s approach to coaching is rooted in dedication, which he believes is critical in player development. He highlighted the importance of being fully present and focused to ensure the club’s young players receive the highest levels of support and education.
“You can’t be half in. Players will sense it. They’ll see it, that you’re not there, that you’re thinking about the next thing. We’re really dedicated to making sure we give our players the best education, the best opportunity, and the best levels of support we can,” he added.
Building for the Future
Despite the 3-2 defeat against Manchester City in Premier League 2, Murty’s vision remains steadfast. He is focused on fostering a culture of excellence within Sunderland’s academy, a critical part of the club’s long-term ambitions.
Writer’s View
Graeme Murty’s refusal to entertain speculation about his future highlights his dedication to Sunderland’s vision. His emphasis on development over personal ambition aligns perfectly with the club’s goals of nurturing homegrown talent. While Hartlepool United may have seen him as a suitable candidate, it’s clear that Murty is fully invested in building something special at Sunderland, ensuring their youth players have the tools to succeed at the highest level.
