Sunderland’s under-21 side were back in Premier League 2 action on Monday evening as they faced Leeds United under the lights, with several familiar first-team names included in the starting XI.
Head coach Graeme Murty handed minutes to senior squad players, including Milan Aleksic, Abdoullah Ba and Ahmed Abdullahi, as the Black Cats looked to continue their development pathway while maintaining competitiveness at under-21 level.
For Aleksic and Ba in particular, the fixture offered valuable game time, while Abdullahi led the line after returning from injury as Sunderland looked to test themselves against strong opposition from West Yorkshire. Sunderland won the contest 5-2 in a game in which they dominated for large periods.
Here’s how each Sunderland player performed against Leeds United U21s in the Premier League 2 at Eppletwo CW:
5. Archie Lightfoot
Archie Lightfoot started at left-back and supported his winger well in the first half. Assisted Harrison Jones' goal just after half-time with a clever pass. 8 | Sunderland AFC
6. Jaydon Jones
Jaydon Jones played at the base of Sunderland's midfield and played a big role in Sunderland's second goal by getting the move started from the middle. 8 | Jaydon Jones
7. Harrison Jones
Harrison Jones started in midfield and scored Sunderland's second goal of the game just after half-time with a cool finish. Very clever on the ball and off it with his movement and general calmness. Replaced at 62 minutes but played really well. 8 | Harrison Jones
8. Abdoullah Ba
Abdoullah Ba started on the right-hand side of Sunderland's attack and combined well with full-back Jenson Jones during the opening 45. Subbed at half-time. 6 Photo: Frank Reid