One point from their last two games has represented a disappointing start to the festive period but to be relatively clear of the bottom three and still just about within striking distance of the play-off places is clearly a decent effort for a newly-promoted side.
Throw in a change of head coach and some key injuries, and it’s a case of job relatively well done with hopefully some more exciting days to come in the second half of the season.
But how have a generally young and inexperienced squad at the level handled it so far? Who has taken a major step forward, who will be hoping for more moving forward and who might well benefit from a loan move next month?
As we do every season, we’ve gone through the squad to reflect on their progress at the halfway stage to find some answers…
5. DANNY BATTH
One of if not Sunderland’s most consistent player so far. Brilliant in defending his box, particularly doing the spells where injury has meant he’s occasionally been the only natural centre back. Everyone is hoping his calf injury from the weekend isn’t serious - a calming figure and a proper defender. His performance at Millwall was arguably the best individual show of the season so far. A Photo: FRANK REID
6. BAILEY WRIGHT
A leader in the group who has been dependable whenever called upon and played his part in some important wins. Will hope for more game time in the second half of the season but will know that competition is increasingly severe. B- Photo: Frank Reid
7. DANIEL BALLARD
It seems remarkable that he has only made four appearances - as no one doubts how big a player he will be in the long term. Injuries have made it a frustrating season so far, now he needs to stay fit and show what a player he clearly is. B- Photo: Frank Reid
8. TRAI HUME
A hard half-season to assess - he’s had some good performances but is probably frustrated not to have had more opportunities. An old-school full back in the best possible sense, he might well need a loan move in the new year so he can challenge properly next season. B- Photo: Frank Reid