Although Michael Beale acknowledges that he and Sunderland are starting to build a “relationship,” he acknowledges that he still has a lot to prove to his fans.
Beale, who last week guided Sunderland to a 3-1 victory against Plymouth Argyle, has come a long way from becoming the target of harsh criticism from supporters in January.
After losing three straight games against Hull City, Ipswich, and Newcastle, Sunderland were enraged. However, since then, they have only picked up three of a potential nine points.
During the Plymouth game, Beale received heartfelt support from supporters for his niece Poppy, who is battling cancer. It seems that he is beginning to experience the warmth that the club has to give.
However, he also admits that improving his ability to recognize when criticism is appropriate will be necessary for their relationship to improve.
After the victory over Plymouth, Beale told reporters, “With a new relationship, everything takes time.”
We didn’t perform well in the emotionally charged games, but there was a lot of emotion in the air.
“We have to accept it, accept the compliments when they are due, and accept the criticism when it isn’t so favorable.
It’s early in the process. We have everything to prove—me, the players, our team, and our club—and it’s my tenth game.