Sunderland have today confirmed the departure of James Vaughan who has left the club to join League One leaders Wigan Athletic.
The striker only arrived at the Wearside outfit in the summer but he has seriously struggled in the second tier.
Vaughan played 23 games in total and managed just two goals, with his last strike for the club a goal against Burton Albion in November.
The 29-year old was signed by Simon Grayson and joined after a superb season for Bury in League One where he scored 24 goals. However, he couldn’t replicate that form for the north east side and despite Chris Coleman’s striker shortage he has sanctioned the sale of Vaughan.
Sunderland’s top scorer Lewis Grabban has also left the club this window after Bournemouth recalled him.
That means that youngster Joshua Maja is in line to start for the bottom of the table side against Cardiff tomorrow.
It also suggests that a new arrival may be imminent with Coleman stating he was desperate to bring in reinforcements before Vaughan’s departure was mentioned.
The Verdict
It may leave Sunderland short at the minute but Vaughan just wasn’t up to the required level in the Championship.
He was low on confidence and struggled big time under both Grayson and Coleman and will surely relish a chance to enjoy his football with Wigan again.
As for Sunderland, it strengthens the need for a striker and fans will expect someone to be imminently lined up ahead of two massive games against Hull and Birmingham after tomorrow’s fixture.
Thoughts, Sunderland fans? Let us know in the comments below.