It lifted Tony Mowbray’s side back into the play-off places ahead of the international break, with the Black Cats now sitting sixth in the table.
It remains of course the tightest and most competitive divisions, with only four points separating Sunderland from the bottom half of the table. Generally, though, the table tells of a solid start to the season and particularly given the notable summer departures of Ross Stewart and Amad. The on-pitch identity has continued to develop even if there have been some teething up issues up front and some disappointing results.
So who has shone so far this season and who might Mowbray be looking to for greater involvement over the busy festive period? We take a closer look, player by player. Those unable to feature so far due to injury have not been included
13. CHRIS RIGG
Two goals and seven appearances represents an excellent start for Rigg, who has only begun training day in, day out with the senior squad this season. Mowbray is picking his moments to expose Rigg to senior football and at the moment it is working well for all parties. The youngster knows competition for minutes will be even more significant when he returns from the U17 World Cup - but Mowbray is confident he will relish that and rise to the challenge. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2022
14. ADIL AOUCHICHE
It has been a very encouraging start from Aouchiche. Though still waiting for his first start he has made an impact in the vast majority of his substitute appearances, showing a lot of technical ability and a happy knack of finding space to cause damage on the break. The goal against Birmingham City has been coming and he will surely land his first start at some stage in the next block of fixtures. Looks a very good find, even if we haven't seen the best of him just yet. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
15. ALEX PRITCHARD
Looked like he might well leave the club over the course of the summer window but once again underlined his quality with a string of excellent displays to help Sunderland overcome their slow start. Sheer weight of numbers in that number ten role means there will inevitably be days where he sits out, but his role in the squad remains a vital one. Adil Aouchiche's emergence and Jobe's continuing quality means starts are going to be fewer in the weeks and months ahead, but he has the quality to make a difference when called upon. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
16. ABDOULLAH BA
Taken a big step forward in his Sunderland career in the early stages of this season. The decision of the coaching staff to move him into a wing role has been a real success, and he has finally been able to enjoy some consistency of selection as a result. Has earned the trust of his head coach and is improving his goal and assist output. Has dropped out of the side in recent weeks but is still one of Mowbray's first choices to impact the game from the bench. 7.5 Photo: Frank Reid