It has been an impressive start to the season for Sunderland, who have taken eleven points from their first seven games under Régis Le Bris.
They have shown an impressive ability to compete at Premier League level, though the head coach has been keen to stress just how much room for improvement there remains. Here, we take an early look at how the squad has fared to date...
Note: Only players who have made a Premier League appearance included
9. Arthur Masuaku (3 appearances)
Played his part in a big win against Nottingham Forest and though he had a tough start at Old Trafford, he improved when moved to a wing back. As expected from his time at West Ham, looks a real attacking threat with some defensive vulnerabilities. 5 | Chris Fryatt
10. Dan Neil (1 appearance)
It’s been a tough start to the campaign for Neil, who has struggled for minutes as a result of Granit Xhaka’s arrival and impact. It will still a hell of a moment for Neil to walk out as a Premier League player in stoppage time against Aston Villa, a lifelong dream fulfilled and also the culmination of years of hard work through the League One and Championship drama. He did his job protecting a valuable point, too. Hasn’t gone as he’d have hoped so far and that run of fixtures during AFCON, when opportunities are seemingly inevitable, could be vital to determining his long-term future at the club. N/A | Getty Images
11. Chris Rigg (4 appearances)
Endured a frustrating pre-season due to injury but the break may well have done him good after such a punishing schedule last year. Has looked energetic and comfortable at the level in his recent appearances, and will surely go from strength to strength in the weeks ahead. Looks in a good position to take his opportunities when AFCON comes around. 6 | Getty Images
12. Habib Diarra (4 appearances)
Made a very solid start to the campaign before suffering a groin injury that required surgery and will keep him out until November. Gets through so much running and carries the ball well, while showing a goal threat he has of yet hasn’t been able to capitalise on. That will be the next big step when he returns. 6.5 | Getty Images