The Black Cats were held to a goalless draw at Northampton Town in what was their first outing since December, with neither side carving out any real chances.
But how did their players perform, and did anyone emerge with any credit? Scroll down as Phil Smith dishes out his merit marks – with a number of low marks unsurprisingly handed out:
1. Lee Burge
Rarely troubled by a Northampton side who created little and looked content to rely on set pieces for their attacking threat. Distribution was mixed. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
2. Cnnor McLaughlin
Rarely troubled defensively but was unable to cause Northampton many issues getting forward, not joining with his side’s attacking play as much as we have seen of late. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
3. Dion Sanderson
Defended well both in the air and on the ground, and was one of Sunderland’s better performers on the day. Forced to play on the left, the Black Cats did miss Denver Hume’s ability to get to the byline. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
4. Bailey Wright
Handled the aerial threat of Northampton well enough and was rarely troubled. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2020