Stokes believes Sunderland can get promotion

Posted on 9th January 2007

Sunderland's latest signing Anthony Stokes believes the clubs can push for promotion this season. The Republic of Ireland under–21 international completed a £2 million move from Arsenal yesterday as Sunderland saw off competition from Celtic and Charlton to sign him. Stokes who is eighteen years old has put pen to paper on a three–and–a–half year contract on Wearside and immediately targeted a promotion push.

"I am confident we can mount a promotion challenge in the second half of the season," he said. "We are only three points off the top six and if we get on a run of three or four games where we pick points up then let's see where that takes us."

Stokes is expected to make his Black Cats debut on Saturday against Ipswich Town. It will be the second time he has played at the Stadium of Light. His only first–team appearance for Arsenal was in the Carling Cup against the Wearsiders last season. Stokes spent the first half of the season on loan in Scotland with Falkirk and is the Scottish Premier League's current top scorer after notching 14 goals in 16 games, as well as two goals in as many games in the cup.

"It is brilliant to be here and I am looking forward to starting training," said Stokes. "I know quite a few of the Irish lads here and one or two of the other boys as well, so hopefully it will not take me too long to settle in. I had a great time in Scotland. The first half of the season went well and I hope the second half here at Sunderland, and the next three years, goes just as well. I would be very happy if I get another 16 goals here."

Earlier Sunderland news

Decision to join Sunderland was quick for Edwards
Sunderland trying to capture Warnock
Stead future in doubt as signings made
Hysen – I could have had a hat–trick
Patience the key says Keane
We can't be come back kings every week
Yorke gets glowing reference from manager
Ward urges Cats to keep focus
Connolly credits away fans with point
Varga sets his sights high
Keane only has a small one
Keane blames agents for rumour mill
Momentum is behind us now says Connolly
Sunderland sweat on Whitehead
Sunderland players in hot water over sex tape