Sheffield Wednesday manager Darren Moore believes Alex Neil has “settled the club down” since arriving at Sunderland in February. Three months ago, the Black Cats were in disarray following the surprise dismissal of Lee Johnson.
A shock 6-0 defeat to Bolton Wanderers caused Kristjaan Speakman to pull the trigger on Johnson despite sitting third in the league. Neil took the job despite the possibility of feeling unwanted after the club flirted with reappointing Roy Keane.
Despite an underwhelming start - which saw Sunderland almost drop out of the play-off places - Neil steadied the ship and has the team looking resilient in recent weeks. Last-gasp goals have been the cornerstone for the Black Cats’ success as they approach crunch time.
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Wednesday provide a stern test at the Stadium of Light tonight, having won six of their last eight to clinch fourth spot. Moore expects a tough challenge on Wearside and credited Neil for the job he has done so far.
“From my perspective, I think Alex (Neil) has done a great job there,” he told YorkshireLive. “He has come in and he has settled the club down. He has brought a lovely blend and continuity to them. They are in good form and so are we.
“They are at home in front of their fans. We know the magnitude of the game, the importance of it, and we know that it’s two very good teams in the division going head to head. We expect it to be tough.
“They have got some good, talented players. They have players who have played at the level above. They have good experience. It bodes well for a good game. Both squads have had players who have played at a higher level.
“Credit to Alex. He has given them hope up there. We know we will have to be at our best. Tomorrow will be a stern test but you expect at this stage of the season with it being a play-off game.”
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