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:
25. SUB: Eliezer Mayenda
The 19-year-old striker joined Sunderland from French side Sochaux on a five-year deal last year. Mayenda then signed for SPL side Hibernian in January. The forward netted two goals for Sunderland in the Championship against Sheffield Wednesday earlier this season. Photo: Frank Reid
26. SUB: Ahmed Abdullahi
Sunderland have been linked with a move to sign the Gent striker. | BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images