‘Unbelievable’ :Pundit tells Sunderland fans why they’ll love Aaron Connolly, and why opposition teams hate him

Sunderland have made a bet on striker Aaron Connolly, who has joined the Black Cats on a contract until the end of the season.

   Sunderland have made a rare off-the-record signing of former Brighton and Hull City striker Aaron Connolly on a free transfer.

   The 24-year-old has been without a club since the end of last season after being released by Hull City after a one-year spell with the Tigers.

   Connolly scored eight goals in 24 league appearances last season, making just 13 starts as his campaign was once again hampered by injuries.

   But in addition to his checkered injuries, Connolly has also struggled off the field and has himself admitted in previous interviews that he was with the wrong crowd.

   Journalist Michael Graham believes Connolly’s professionalism will be his biggest challenge at the Stadium of Light this season.

   However, he remains a striker with a good track record in the Championship as forwards are often missing from Sunderland’s first team.

   Hull City’s Aaron Connolly celebrates after scoring his side’s first goal during the Sky Bet Championship match between Bristol City and Hull Ci…

   BBC pundit hails ‘annoying’ Aaron Connolly

   BBC Humberside commentator Mike White spoke on Total Sport about Connolly’s arrival on Wearside.

   White watched Connolly in action throughout last season and praised his natural goalscoring ability, predicting that Connolly will be successful at Sunderland if he can stay fit.

   And White also suggested why Connolly has the potential to become something of a cult hero among Black Cats fans.

   He said: “He’s annoying. And I mean that for the opposition. He’s one of those players; if he’s on your side, you love him. If he’s on the opposition, he makes you feel incredible.

   “He will tease the defenders, he will try to get into their heads, maybe he will talk to them a little bit and check them as well.”

   Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris during the Sky Bet Championship match between Sunderland and Burnley at the Stadium Of Light in Sunderland, England…

   Regis Le Bris must find a balance with Aaron Connolly at Sunderland

   Regis Le Bris still has a very youthful and inexperienced side.    And we’ve seen that inexperience at times this season.

   Marco Gabbiadini has been critical of Romaine Mundle for the way he responded to challenges, particularly in the defeat to Plymouth Argyle.

   Connolly is slightly older and more experienced than most at Sunderland.    However, this has the ability to backfire, so managing and managing this will be key for Le Bris.

   The key for Connolly is staying fit.    But according to White, he is a player opponents will not hate and if he can get going he will quickly become a popular player at Sunderland.