Sunderland’s pre-season came to a conclusion last weekend ahead of this Saturday’s Championship opener against Cardiff City.
Marseille went 1-0 up in the first half at Valley Parade through Faris Moumbagna at Valley Parade on Saturday after Dan Neil lost the ball in the middle of the park. Sunderland hit back after the break after Dennis Cirkin headed home Patrick Roberts’ superb cross.
Half-time substitute Ismael Kone restored Marseille’s lead on the 50-minute mark with a superb finish after Ruben Blanco produced a stunning save to deny Roberts. Nazariy Rusyn, on for Eliezer Mayenda, then won Sunderland a penalty which was dispatched by fellow substitute Adil Aouchiche, who had replaced Jobe. The game finished 2-2.
Leading up to the game, Sunderland concluded a deal for goalkeeper Blondy Nna Noukeu after a successful trial period with the club. The former Stoke City man was present at Valley Parade after his deal. There has also been much transfer talk regarding incomings and outgoings.
Here, we take a look at how Régis Le Bris’ squad could look if the transfer rumours turn out to be true incomings and outgoings:
17. SUB: Alan Browne
Sunderland have signed Alan Browne after his contract at Preston North End expired this summer. The midfielder looks like he will be a shrewd addition, adding experience and know-how to the Black Cats' midfield. | Ian Horrocks
18. SUB: Salis Abdul Samed
Sunderland are said to be in talks regarding a loan deal for the Lens defensive midfielder | Getty Images
19. SUB: Abdoullah Ba
The 20-year-old signed a five-year deal at Sunderland when he joined the club from French side Le Havre in 2022. Ba made 36 Championship appearances last season. Photo: Nigel Roddis
20. SUB: Aji Alese
The 23-year-old defender has missed large parts of this season due to injury but recently signed a contract extension with the club but is now injured Photo: Frank Reid