Young Sunderland winger Tommy Watson has finalized a move to Brighton, set to go through during the upcoming summer transfer window. The 18-year-old’s decision to leave the Black Cats has sparked a wave of mixed reactions from fans. Sunderland’s newly appointed manager, Régis Le Bris, confirmed that the decision to move was initiated by the player himself, not the club.
Watson, once a beacon of hope for Sunderland’s future, was booed by sections of the fanbase during last Friday’s away defeat at Bristol City. The tension carried over to their following game at the Stadium of Light, where he received a mixed reception as the team fell to a 1-0 defeat against Blackburn Rovers. Former Sunderland striker Marco Gabbiadini criticized the reaction from fans, calling it a “brainless” response to a situation that’s becoming increasingly common in modern football.
Speaking to BBC Radio Newcastle, Gabbiadini emphasized that contract situations like Watson’s are just part of the game today. “It’s modern football,” he explained. “Even top players nearing the end of their contracts are still playing while negotiating their future elsewhere. You can’t treat players like that—it’s simply the business of football.”
He went on to highlight that Watson’s early agreement to join Brighton could ultimately benefit Sunderland, both financially and possibly in terms of future loan opportunities. “Who knows? He might even come back on loan next season,” Gabbiadini added. “I’m pleased most supporters did show him the respect and backing he deserves. Anything can happen—maybe there’s even a fairy-tale ending to this season for him.”
Sunderland will look to refocus on the pitch this Saturday as they travel to face 19th-placed Oxford United.
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