Sunderland have 366 reasons to believe ahead of their historic Europa League campaign - and here is why

The excitement is already rising as Sunderland prepare to compete alongside the likes of AC Milan, Juventus and Marseille in next season’s Europa League.

Regis Le Bris’ side far surpassed all expectations during their first season back in the Premier League and a seventh placed finish ensured Sunderland will compete in European competition for only the second time in their history. But do they have enough experience of competing in Europe within their squad?

A total of nine current members of the Black Cats ranks have no experience of European football with their former clubs - but 13 of their team-mates have racked up a combined total of 366 appearances in the qualifying stages, group phase or knockout rounds of the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League throughout their careers.

That means Sunderland already have vast experience within their squad as they prepare for their maiden voyage into the Europa League - but which players hold the most experience of competing in European competition?

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