Neil can land SAFC's new McGeady in deal for "absolutely outstanding" £4.5m-rated gem - opinion

Sunderland have secured a spot in the League One play-off finals next weekend at Wembley Stadium against Wycombe Wanderers and keeping their relentless team together next season no matter the outcome should be a priority for Alex Neil.

The Black Cats manager who was appointed in February has unlocked a formula to get the side back to their winning ways taking nine victories, seven draws and just one loss from his 17 games in charge at the Stadium of Light, leading them to the position they are in now with one game standing in the way of promotion back to Championship for the first time in four seasons.

Although the Scotsman has made a huge difference since his arrival, the players in the team have really turned it up a notch and worked hard to earn their chance to climb up the Football League.

One player who has been effective since his arrival at the club in January is Tottenham Hotspur loanee Jack Clarke, with the right winger scoring one goal and contributing three assists over the last 17 appearances for Sunderland.

The £4.5m-rated gem who was hailed as “absolutely outstanding” by Sunderland Echo journalist Phil Smith, has been a creative force during his time in the North East with five big chances created, making 1.6 key passes, 1.2 tackles and 1.5 shots on average per game, winning the majority of his ground duels and proving successful in 66% of his dribbles.

With that being said, Neil could turn him into the next Aiden McGeady, another wizard on the wing, if he can secure a deal to extend the youngster’s time at Sunderland, with a deal potentially there for the taking ahead of his return to North London.

Spurs insider John Wenham who has confirmed that the Lilywhites will offer the 21-year-old winger a new