Sunderland confirm player’s departure

Sunderland have confirmed that young forward Josh Hawkes has signed for Tranmere Rovers permanently.

He has been on loan at Rovers since September and has clearly impressed his new club in the 17 games he’s played for them so far.

Discussing the decision to let the youngster go, Sunderland’s Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman told the club’s official media: “Josh has worked incredibly hard over the past 18 months to compete for a place within our senior squad before enjoying a successful loan at Tranmere. He turns 23 later this week and the opportunity to move to Prenton Park on a permanent basis and play League Two football regularly is one that we feel is the right step for him. We wish Josh every success for the future.”

Hawkes started his career at Hartlepool united where he played both League Two and non league football across 61 appearances. Sunderland snapped up the young player in September 2020 and he scored his only senior goal for the club earlier in the season in a 2-1 victory against Port Vale.

During his loan spell at Tranmere Rovers this season, Hawkes has scored one goal and has three assists to his name. Now he remains there permanently, he will be hoping to add to this tally as his side push for promotion from League Two.

The Verdict:

I think this is a good move for all parties currently. Hawkes has clearly had a positive impact at Tranmere and his new club think he adds value to their team. Meanwhile, it wasn’t looking likely that he would be making many appearances for Sunderland anytime soon.

The youngster is about to turn 23 and this is the age where he really wants to be getting regular minutes and developing his play from experience on the pitch. Playing regularly at Prenton Park will only help