Sunderland Transfers: 5 Recent Players Black Cats Should Not Have Sold

1. Simon Mignolet

This is quite possibly the one that definitely got away and hurt, not just because he left but because how well he's doing for his new club now. The Belgian was brought in to challenge Craig Gordon between the sticks and was highly thought of by the man who brought him in, Steve Bruce, during his time there. His first taste of English football was against Birmingham in the 2010 season opener where he put in a Man of The Match performance and repeated the feat a week later against Manchester City, pulling off an amazing reaction save from Emmanuel Adebayor's shot. Although he did get dropped behind in the pecking order, his patience paid off and his growth in the League began to take off, collecting rave reviews from the media and goalkeepers alike, such as England international Joe Hart. Fans loved him, especially after his penalty save against Newcastle, which had a hint of Thomas Sorenson back in 2000 when he stopped Alan Shearer's spot kick. After that, his popularity sky-rocketed, he was a hero in the eyes of fans. Growing in stature and also playing his part within his National side, and along with a string of consistent performances, it was always going to draw attention from bigger clubs, again it was Liverpool who captured the Belgian for £9 million, profit for Sunderland, but a huge loss in terms of an important first team player. His spot may now battled between Vito Mannone and Keiren Westwood, but they will never be able to replace the presence that he in goal, not to mention his ability too. He really is looking the part at Anfield and he could easily become of one the best keepers in the world - he's already one of the best in the Barlcays Premier League without a doubt. Be sure to listen to the chant fans made for him if you can! Quite easily the best chant I've ever heard! Do Sunderland fans agree with this? Have I missed anyone more important? Comment below and tell me!