Sunderland were beaten 1-0 by Championship leaders Leicester at the King Power Stadium – but how did each player fare for Tony Mowbray’s side.
Foxes defender James Juston scored the only goal of the game when he headed home Kienan Dewsbury-Hall’s corner in the 12th minute.
Sunderland then had a strong penalty appeal turned down on the stroke of half-time when Dan Neil was brought down by Wout Faes.
Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players at the King Power Stadium:
5. Niall Huggins - 6
Leicester targeted him with a couple of high balls early on, which he dealt with well. Little chance to get forward but stuck to a very difficult defensive task well enough. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
6. Dan Neil - 8
Spurned two half-decent shooting chances late in the game but this was otherwise a mightily impressive return to the side. At the heart of his side’s best attacking play, whether it be with dangerous crosses or passes to find the free player out wide. Pinched the ball back plenty, too. One of the best performers on the pitch. 8 Photo: Frank Reid
7. Pierre Ekwah - 6
A steady performance for the most part and was composed on the ball when required. Wasn’t always easy to contain Leicester’s midfield runners but his discipline allowed Neil to break forward and that almost yielded results before his substitution. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
8. Jobe Bellingham - 5
Spun away from his marker nicely at times in order to drive into dangerous areas, but was a little quieter than we have perhaps become accustomed too. A few signs of fatigue after a demanding start to the campaign. 5 Photo: Frank Reid