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.
17. DAN NEIL
6.5 Neil’s new contract is a fitting reward for his excellent first campaign at Championship level. He has featured in the vast majority of games and adapted well to a new position in recent times, becoming the leader of the midfield in Evans’ absence. There have been errors along the way but the trajectory of his career is very clearly upward. Photo: FRANK REID 2022
18. EDOUARD MICHUT
5.9 The first half of the season was a frustrating one for Michut as minor injuries prevented him competing for a start regularly, but in recent months he has begun to show what he is made of. Excellent in possession, he is improving out of it and is beginning to make a strong case for the club triggering their option-to-buy clause. Photo: Frank Reid
19. PIERRE EKWAH
6.1 Ekwah has made some good cameos from the bench, but Mowbray has explained that he wants to see the youngster quicken up his game and use his strength more - a process that will inevitably take time given that he arrived having never played in senior football. Photo: Frank Reid
20. JAY MATETE
6.1 Matete showed some encouraging signs through the first half of the season but with Sunderland having so many number eights, it made sense for him to join Plymouth’s promotion push. He has impressed there and most definitely made an impact, though of late he has often had to settle for a place on the bench. Has a big pre-season ahead, hopefully off the back of a confidence-boosting promotion. Photo: Frank Reid