While there remains a chance of them pushing their way into the top-six battle it is an increasingly remote one, with injuries and a frustrating end to the January transfer window taking their inevitable toll.
There have been some major highs and some impressive performers across a campaign, though it is one that will end with some regret given the outstanding position the club found itself in at the turn of the year.
So who has stood out over the course of the season and who might have a big summer decision to make depending on how the next six weeks or so go? We calculated our average player ratings from the season so far to find out more. We set a minimum of five senior appearances, to avoid any unfair judgements or major anomalies.
9. LEON DAJAKU
5.4 Hasn’t been able to make much of an impression this season, mostly featuring from the bench and often up front when from the start. Currently on loan at St Gallen, a summer move looks a possibility with Sunderland so well stocked in the wide areas. Photo: Frank Reid
10. ELLIOT EMBLETON
5.9 A serious injury suffered at Hull City prevented him from building on a solid first half of the season with some important contributions, particularly in crucial wins against Wigan Athletic and Reading. His versatility made him a valuable player for both head coaches, though it has possibly also prevented him from nailing down a regular spot in the XI - which will be his next challenge when fit next season. Photo: Frank Reid
11. PATRICK ROBERTS
6.5 Roberts struggled to find a place in the 3-5-2 system Sunderland deployed at the start of the campaign, but he has been a regular under Mowbray and his high rating is testament to his performances in a position where inconsistency is often expected, to an extent. That he is so often a total joy to watch is an added bonus. Photo: FRANK REID 2022
12. LYNDEN GOOCH
6.3 Gooch was a really strong performer at wing back as Sunderland made a better than expected start to the campaign, but injury has allowed Trai Hume to stake his claim. Since returning Gooch has often featured further forward, which could continue. Mowbray loves his commitment and energy, so will find a place for him more often than not. Photo: Frank Reid