For a bit of fun, we've used the latest edition of Football Manager to travel five years into the future, and taken a look at how Sunderland's side shapes up. This is how the management simulator predicts the Black Cats will be lining up in January 2026.
9. CM: Kadeem Harris
Sunderland really have gone to town on the former Sheffield Wednesday players. The winger has been shoe-horned into a central midfield spot, and it's really not worked out. He's on the transfer list. Photo: George Wood
10. ST: Joshua Kayode
Arriving at the Stadium of Light for a mere £58k from Rotherham United, the Nigerian striker is looking to rejuvenate his career, and has made a good crack at it thus far with eight goals in 27 games. Photo: David Rogers
11. ST: Kieran Sadlier
Sadlier partners his former Rotherham teammate up-front. He's also proved a reliable goal-threat, and has adapted well to playing a central role after spending most of his career on the wings. Photo: Laurence Griffiths
12. Sub 1: Jamal Blackman
The journeyman stopper finally got his big break in the Premier League with West Brom, and then, rather impressively, with Arsenal. He's with the Black Cats on loan, and is the first-choice when fit. Photo: Jan Kruger