Which players make it into Sunderland’s greatest ever Premier League era starting XI? It’s a big question, and one that we here at The Echo have been asking you over the past few days.
From towering goalkeepers to tough-tackling defenders to red hot centre-forwards, we’ve been running polls asking you to vote on which names are deserving of a nod in the Black Cats’ most impressive top flight team, and you’ve told us in your droves.
With that in mind, and with all numbers properly tallied up, here is Sunderland’s best Premier League XI, as decided by you, the fans...
9. LM: Julio Arca
A hugely popular figure on Wearside, Arca arrived as a full-back, was converted into a more advanced role under Peter Reid, and never looked back. Versatile, diligent, and technically gifted, the South American was the very definition of an unearthed gem. Photo: Sunderland Echo
10. ST: Jermain Defoe
Signed in a swap deal that saw Jozy Altidore leave the Stadium of Light for Toronto FC, Defoe would prove to be an infinitely better option for Sunderland than his American predecessor. Razor sharp in front of goal, talismanic in his role as the key to the Black Cats' repeated relegation escapology acts, and forever appreciated for his relationship with young fan Bradley Lowery, the ex-England international remains adored in the North East. | Getty Images
11. ST: Kevin Phillips
It just had to be, didn't it? Maybe the most iconic Sunderland player of the 21st century, Phillips scored goal after goal after goal in red and white, and became the first Englishman ever to win the European Golden Boot. It's hard to find the words to do justice to how good he was in his pomp, but suffice to say, there was nobody quite like Super Kev. | Getty Images