Elmo: Egyptian Beckham

Elmo's immediate future appears to be on Wearside, and for the £2m reported fee I think it's a smart move from Bruce. Although we haven't had official confirmation on the loan deal being made permanent, Bruce has said so himself that that's his aim. Hopefully the deal can be sorted out quickly and smoothly, with the fee being agreed prior to the loan deal I'm hoping that will be the case, especially as Elmohamady is keen to join us permanently. It's a rarity for Egyptian players to play their football outside the country, with just 3 of the current Egypt set-up playing their football in Europe, Elmohamady being one. 

Elmo, Elmo, it's down the wing he goes...

Elmo enjoyed a good first season in England, making 37 appearances for Sunderland in both the right back and right midfield position, the former his more natural position, and where he frequents for Egypt. At the age of 23 he has a fair amount of experience, with a completed Premier League season and an impressive 42 appearances for his country. I, personally, rate Ahmed. I think there's aspects of his game that can be improved and I'm fairly certain they will be given time. His crossing has been a little suspect, especially with the nickname 'Egyptian Beckham', it's fair to say that he hasn't really lived up to that - however in the Egyptian league he may have been just that. He has however got a lot of pace and energy, he can support the winger when playing right back and can link up well with the right back when playing on the wing, however next season I'd like to see him try to beat his man more, and get to the byline. All in all though, it's a very shrewd signing for Sunderland and he can only really get better, worst comes to worst and his time here doesn't work out, we can always ship him out to our second string, Stokerland.