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.
13. LUKE O'NIEN
6.4 O’Nien seemed to struggle a touch with the pace of the new division to begin with, but he has been a revelation since dropping into defence and it’s there that he is expected to play in the long term. Continues to improve and impress. Photo: FRANK REID
14. ABDOULLAH BA
6.1 Has mostly been used as an impact substitute as he adapts to a new environment, but his impact has grown since Mowbray has pushed him further forward. On the ball he has so much ability, and the long-term challenge is to develop the rest of his game so that he can start more regularly. Wonderful to watch on the ball and has a bright future. Photo: Frank Reid
15. JACK CLARKE
6.3 Clarke has had an excellent campaign, playing week in, week out and delivering in the final third while improving his game tracking back the other way. There have been some understandable dips along the way given his workload, but he is one of the key reasons Sunderland have never had to worry about the drop in a meaningful way. Photo: Frank Reid
16. ALEX PRITCHARD
6.5 Was superb in the opening months of the season, leading Sunderland’s press off the ball and making a good number of goal contributions. Injury has disrupted his rhythm somewhat over recent weeks, but will be looking for a strong end to the season after the international break. Photo: FRANK REID