REGIS ON NEIL EXIT

RLB spoke about Dan Neil's final days at Sunderland AFC and the impact he had in last season's play-off campaign as captain.

A BIG MISS

“A huge player for the club. For me as a manager as well, the connection we had last season was absolutely perfect. The way we worked together, the way he managed the team as a captain, and he was a key factor to manage the togetherness along with Luke. Last season those two players were really important for that topic. The journey is the journey, and I think he is now in a new part of his professional life. You have to leave at times but with respect and good memories.”

FINAL CONVERSATION

“Not exactly before, because it is always unpredictable. We were at West Ham and I believe it was four days after that when the decision was made at that point. So, we texted both ways and it was more about the pathway we had together. A lot of respect. He did a good job and now he’s in a new part of his life.”