EFL expert delivers his brutal verdict on under-fire Phil Parkinson and Sunderland's dire form

EFL expert David Prutton has delivered a damning verdict on Sunderland's promotion chances – having claimed Phil Parkinson ‘hasn’t got them going’ since his arrival.
Sunderland manager Phil ParkinsonSunderland manager Phil Parkinson
Sunderland manager Phil Parkinson

Former Leeds United midfielder Prutton, who works as a pundit on Sky Sports’ coverage of the EFL, believes that the Black Cats are now up against it in their quest for promotion back to the Championship.

And speaking ahead of the visit of former manager Simon Grayson and Blackpool this weekend, Prutton revealed why he feels Sunderland have regressed their new management team.

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Parkinson has won just two of his 12 games in charge at the Stadium of Light and faces a stern test against an in-form Blackpool side currently sat in the play-off places.

Indeed, Prutton doesn’t see things getting any better for the Wearsiders this weekend as their slide away from the top six continues.

“It seems like Sunderland have taken a step backwards under Phil Parkinson, who just hasn't got them going since replacing Jack Ross,” wrote the former midfielder, while making his weekly predictions for Sky Sports.

“They are slipping away from the top six right now, let alone the top two.

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“Blackpool are firmly embedded in the play-offs and are under a great run of form. Simon Grayson would love to get one over his former club and I think he'll do just that.”

Prutton went on to predict that the Seasiders would run out 2-0 victors at the Stadium of Light.