Sunderland’s season is drawing towards a disappointing conclusion and thoughts are turning to what is going to be a crucial summer rebuild.
Interim head coach Mike Dodds has said that recruitment planning is under way behind the scenes at the Academy of Light, with change expected after the appointment of a new boss at the end of the campaign. So what’s likely to happen as it stands, and how could that change over the course of the summer months?
Here we assess the 33 players in Sunderland’s senior squad over the course of this campaign and whether they are likely to stay, go, or head out on loan in the summer transfer window…
25. ABDOULLAH BA
Had a solid first half to the season and deputised well when Patrick Roberts was first injured. Struggled to maintain that consistency but suffered from being shifted around the pitch again as unexpected turnover in the dugout saw Sunderland’s season unravel. Will likely be part of the squad next season, needs a settled role and position - and he then needs to find that consistency. Verdict: Staying | Frank Reid Photo: FRANK REID 2022
26. PATRICK ROBERTS
Roberts has had a frustrating campaign but signed a new long-term deal last season and Mike Dodds has already revealed that both parties are determined to return for a productive pre-season and to kick on from there. Has a big role to play and Sunderland need him back to his best. Verdict: Staying | Frank Reid Photo: FRANK REID
27. JACK CLARKE
Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman has already conceded that the winger could leave this summer if he does not agree a new, long-term deal - something which looks highly unlikely as the club have fallen well short in the intermittent talks that have taken place to date. Lazio’s significant January bid was an indicator that the market is there for the winger after a stellar season, and his value right now is probably as high as it will ever be on his current contract. Feels right now as if a parting is inevitable, and it will leave Sunderland with a huge challenge given their reliance on him in the final third this season. Verdict: Sadly, probably going | Ian Horrocks Photo: Ian Horrocks
28. JEWISON BENNETTE
Easy to forget Bennette is still only 19, so time is still firmly on his side. Still feels like a big summer, as he is approaching two years at the club and has not been able to break into the starting XI regularly - mainly due to Clarke’s excellence. Has had a tough loan in Greece, though primarily due to injury. Understandably wants to play regularly for his international prospects, so there has to be a chance of a summer departure unless he really kicks on under the new head coach. Verdict: Possible loan/going | Frank Reid Photo: Frank Reid