Sunderland’s form and problems worsened with a 2-0 defeat to Dinamo Zagreb in the Europa League on Thursday night.
Here’s how we rated all the lads involved on the night...
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5. CB - Omar Alderete
Couldn’t clear the second goal off the line but again looked very unconvincing in and out of possession. So far off last season’s levels. 4 | Sunderland's Omar Alderete. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
6. LB - Dayann Methalie
Made one very positive run but took a heavy touch in the end. Just couldn’t quite get it right in possession and lost the ball too often. Looked very good against Brentford but couldn’t replicate that here. 4 | Sunderland Echo, Chris Fryatt
7. CM - Granit Xhaka
Most of Sunderland’s rare bits of good play came from his forward passing or set plays but again lost the ball so often. That stopped Sunderland building momentum so often. One of many just so far off last season’s levels. 3 | Sunderland Echo, Chris Fryatt
8. CM - Jules Ahoka
Has been superb in this competition but never going tonight despite one or two decent moments. Looked a little off the pace and struggled against a smart Dinamo Zagreb midfield. 5 | Getty Images