Sunderland were beaten 1-0 by Watford at Vicarage Road – but how did each player fare for the Black Cats?
After a goalless first half, Watford substitute Ryan Andrews scored the game’s only goal in the 64th minute. Sunderland boss Mike Dodds then made multiple changes, yet his side weren’t able to force an equaliser.
Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players at Vicarage Road:
5. Aji Alese - 6
Made a couple of good challenges as he stepped up his comeback with another steady performance. Did little wrong and looked comfortable on the left of the back three. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
6. Callum Styles - 5
Feels like a bit of an opportunity missed to see him in midfield as Sunderland stuck with the back five. Tidy enough but didn’t really threaten and let Andrews in behind him for the goal. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
7. Pierre Ekwah - 5
Made a couple of good challenges in the first half and was tidy enough in possession without creating any significant openings for his team mates. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
8. Jobe Bellingham - 5
Had a quiet game in midfield though his well-won header almost allowed Hume to score just before half time. Looks like the summer break will do him good, much less influential than we have seen over the season. 5 Photo: Frank Reid