Phil Smith's Sunderland AFC player ratings: Which youngsters caught the eye despite defeat at Fleetwood?
Sunderland fell to defeat in their final Papa John’s Trophy group stage fixture – despite a positive first half performance at Fleetwood Town.
By Phil Smith
Published 10th Nov 2020, 21:48 BST
Callum McFadzean’s early strike had put the Black Cats in control only for a series of injuries to hamper their flow, allowing the Cod Army to claim a 2-1 win.
But there were still some encouraging performances from a young Sunderland side who really impressed at times.
So who caught the eye? Scroll down as Phil Smith dishes out his player ratings:
So who caught the eye? Scroll down as Phil Smith dishes out his player ratings:
5. Jack Diamond
Had the beating of his full back throughout the first half. There were some terrific crosses that were unfortunate not to find a team-mate, and one or two that could perhaps have been more precise. Kept driving forward even as his side struggled in the second half. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2020
Got the goal that his play on Saturday deserved, even if there may have been a deflection on his effort as it flew in. Got in some very good attacking positions again, understandably tiring in the second half. Came off with a hamstring problem that will be a concern for Sunderland. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
The best player on the park in the first half, winning tackles and interceptions all over the park. Forced into central defence after the break and performed well there, too, with some important contributions. 8 Photo: Frank Reid
Played some excellent passes in the first half, part of a lively midfield that ran the contest. Couldn’t find quite the same level of consistency in the second half but this was another enterprising display that underlined his talent, particularly as he was playing a little deeper than we are accustomed to and so had more responsibility. 7 Photo: FRANK REID 2020