The major Sunderland storylines to emerge from the win at Gateshead and the key players who benefited from the friendly

But not all of the storylines to emerge from the International Stadium were positive, with some players having work to do before September 12.

We take a look at the key tales that emerged from the 3-1 win and the main beneficiaries of the friendly:

A good day for…

Will Grigg – While the fire may not be fully lit just yet, we can certainly see a few sparks. The striker put in a strong display after entering the fray on the hour mark, putting his head where it hurt to score the Black Cats’ second goal of the afternoon before turning provider for the third as he teed up Josh Scowen. It was arguably the assist which was more impressive, with Grigg doing well to take down a cross, shield the ball and pick out Scowen in space. So while it may not be time to ramp-up the GALA just yet, maybe save it to your playlist just in case…

Jack Diamond – After his successful loan spell at Harrogate last season, Diamond has been given a chance to shine by Parkinson in pre-season. And he certainly took that chance at Gateshead, impressing in his 30-minute cameo. He was quick, direct and caused the home defence no end of problems. He grabbed a deserved assist after his cross was nodded home by Grigg, and it was pleasing to see some old-fashioned wing play rewarded. Here’s hoping we can see more of the 20-year-old in the weeks to come.

Grant Leadbitter – Even before a ball was kicked, this was a special day for Leadbitter who – having taken some away from the club in the early months of 2020 – returned to the fold at Gateshead. It was pleasing to see him back in action and as vocal as ever, encouraging his teammates and ensuring the side retained their shape out of possession. He’s sure to be a key man this season both on and off the pitch.

A bad day for…

Elliot Embleton – The attacking midfielder missed much of last season through injury, so there was a real sense of intrigue as he was handed a start at the International Stadium. But sadly for both player and club, Embleton’s afternoon was cut short after he was withdrawn as a precaution just after the half hour mark. Phil Parkinson confirmed that the youngster had felt some tightness when he was substituted, and here’s hoping he can make a quick recovery.

Remi Matthews – Sunderland’s latest summer recruit was unable to feature at Gateshead as the club were still waiting on results from his coronavirus test, and in his absence Lee Burge put in a fine display. He made a stunning save to keep Greg Olley at bay in the first half before making a similarly smart stop in the dying minutes. Burge looks set to start the season as the Black Cats’ number one, leaving Matthews with work to do and an impression to make.

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