Sunderland held automatic promotion chasers Leeds to a goalless draw at Elland Road – but who stood out for the Black Cats?
The hosts dominated possession but couldn’t find a breakthrough despite piling on the pressure in the second half. Sunderland were fortunate not to concede a penalty when the ball hit Luke O’Nien on the arm inside the Black Cats’ box, yet the referee waved play on.
Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players at Elland Road:
9. Jack Clarke - 6
Showed a threat in the first half but was a lot quieter after the break as Leeds managed to lift the intensity and take control. Another who put in a lot of effort for his team. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
10. Chris Rigg - 6
Stuck to his task really well ahead of Pembele and got into some good areas when Sunderland were able to break. Gave it away once or twice but a hugely valuable learning experience for such a young player. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
11. Jobe Bellingham - 7
Didn’t have much sight of goal but put in a huge shift for the team in a slightly deeper role, getting through a massive amount of work to prevent Gruev dictating the tempo of the game from deep. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
12. Patrick Roberts (sub) - 6
One or two nice touches and drew a decent stop from Meslier from a free kick. Brought a bit of energy at an important time. 6 Photo: Frank Reid