Sunderland’s Championship campaign ended in a disappointing 16th-placed finish, meaning the club faces a significant summer rebuild as it prepares to appoint a new head coach.
The squad changed considerably from that which beaten Luton Town at home in the first leg of the play-off semi final at the Stadium of Light one year ago today, with some key figures departing and the club committing even more significantly to it’s youth policy. So what did we learn about the club’s strategy over the course of the last two transfer windows, what worked out and what mistakes were made? We rated every single major transfer decision sanctioned by Kristjaan Speakman and Sunderland to address what needs to change in the summer ahead...
5. JOBE BELLINGHAM - SIGNED FROM BIRMINGHAM CITY
Though there have been times over the course of the campaign when it has seemed as if the youngster has been overplayed, it is hard to argue that this acquisition has been anything other than an emphatic success. Already has a value well in excess of what Sunderland paid to bring him in and that looks set only to grow moving forward. Has shown a real eye for goal and a tactical maturity to contribute in a number of different positions. Finding a settled role looks to be the next step for him but a really strong first season and a top signing. Decision rated: 9.5/10 | Getty Images Photo: George Wood
6. LUIS HEMIR - SIGNED FROM BENFICA B
Hemir was a significant investment on Sunderland’s part and though he’s still very young and with a lot of time on his side, so far he has struggled to adapt to the intensity of the Championship and as such, his finishing ability has been unable to come to the fore. It’s a big pre-season for both himself and Sunderland, who might have to consider a loan to try and rebuild confidence and his transfer value if it looks as if first team opportunities on Wearside will be few and far between. Decision rated: 4/10 Photo: Frank Reid
7. JENSON SEELT - SIGNED FROM PSV
Was beginning to make some promising progress before suffering a major knee injury that will rule him out for the rest of this year. Comfortable on the ball, versatile and increasingly looked as if he could cope with the physical demands of the Championship - you could see why Sunderland recruited him. Decision rated: 6.5/10 | Frank Reid Photo: Frank Reid
8. ALEX BASS - LOANED TO AFC WIMBLEDON
Bass was unlikely to push Anthony Patterson for a place and his successful loan at AFC Wimbledon, where he was a regular and his performances widely praised, means there should be transfer interest from the EFL and Sunderland should be able to recoup funds if, as now seems likely, he is now to depart permanently. Decision rated: 7/10 | Frank Reid Photo: Frank Reid