Phil Smith's Sunderland player ratings: Who starred and struggled as SAFC lose at Bradford City?
Sunderland were beaten 2-0 at Bradford in a pre-season friendly – but how did each Black Cats player fare at Valley Parade?
Alex Neil made 11 changes to his side following Sunderland’s 2-0 win over Dundee United, with the head coach looking to give every member of his senior squad sufficient game time ahead of the new Championship campaign.
After a goalless first half, Emmanuel Osadebe put the hosts ahead after the interval.
The hosts then doubled their lead when Lynden Gooch brought down Jamie Walker and the attacking midfielder converted from the penalty spot.
Here’s how our chief Sunderland writer rated each player at Valley Parade:
The hosts then doubled their lead when Lynden Gooch brought down Jamie Walker and the attacking midfielder converted from the penalty spot.
5. Ellis Taylor - 5
Played at left wing back and picked up some good attacking positions in the first half, but wasn’t really done many favours by the service to him. Understandably not always convincing in his defensive work but battled hard. 5 Photo: JPI Media
6. Carl Winchester - 5
Made one good clearance off the line but looked a bit uncertain on the right of the back three for the most part. Pulled out of position on a few occasions. 5 Photo: JPI Media
7. Jay Matete - 4
Not at his sharpest across the game, not quite able to break up the opposition play and press as he normally does so effectively. Quiet in possession. 4 Photo: FRANK REID PHOTOGRAPHER 2022
8. Elliot Embleton - 5
Most of Sunderland’s best work in possession came through him, though playing him deeper than O’Nien in the midfield three didn’t seem to work. More influential when Sunderland switched to a back four. 5 Photo: JPI Media