Sunderland have been enjoying a strong start to their Championship season so far and currently occupy the top spot in the table. After finishing way down in 16th last campaign, the Black Cats are pushing hard and have a promotion place firmly in their sights.
With six wins from their opening nine games, it’s been a solid run of performances overall for Sunderland, but how does their current form compare to where they were this time last season? We’ve taken a look back through previous results and compared the 2023/24 table after the first nine matches to the current Championship standings.
Take a look below at how Sunderland’s form compares to this time last year, along with the rest of their rivals.
13. 12th: Derby County (12 points)
Newly promoted Derby County have settled in much easier than League One champions Portsmouth after finishing second in the third tier last season. | Getty Images
14. 11th: Swansea City (12 points)
Swansea had just collected just nine points at this point last season and were down in 19th place. | Getty Images
15. 10th: Oxford United (12 points)
The U's fought hard for promotion last season and came through the play-offs to reach the Championship. So far, they have handled the pressures of the league well. | Getty Images
16. 9th: Middlesbrough (14 points)
Boro were teetering above the drop zone this time last season, with just eight points in 21st place. | Getty Images