Sunderland more than held their own after returning to the second tier for the first time in four years, exceeding many peoples’ expectations to finish in the play-offs.
There were also some impressive performances against the Black Cats over the course of the campaign - so we’ve picked a starting XI of players who caught the eye in one-off games against Sunderland.
Here’s who made the cut:
1. GK: Ethan Horvath (Luton)
The Luton keeper, 27, made a few important saves during October’s 1-1 draw at Kenilworth Road and was only beaten by a late Amad penalty as Sunderland snatched a point from March’s reverse fixture. Photo: Tony Marshall
2. RB: Connor Roberts (Burnley)
Burnley’s right-back managed to keep Jack Clarke quiet in March’s goalless draw at Turf Moor, while providing more of an attacking outlet as the game went on. The 27-year-old also assisted one of Burnley’s goals in October’s 4-2 win at the Stadium of Light. Photo: Alex Livesey
3. CB: Anel Ahmedhodzic (Sheffield United)
In a man-of-the-match performance, the 24-year-old registered a goal and an assist during Sheffield United’s 2-1 win over Sunderland at Bramall Lane. He also featured in March’s match at the Stadium of Light, which The Blades won by the same scoreline. Photo: George Wood
4. CB: Tom Lockyer (Luton)
While Lockyer, 28, scored Luton’s winner against Sunderland in the play-offs, he was also a standout performer for The Hatters in both league fixtures against the Black Cats. Photo: Warren Little