But a glance outside the Premier League shows a host of players who spent their formative years at the Academy of Light - showing how the Black Cats’ impact stretches throughout the footballing pyramid.
We cast an eye over 17 highly-rated players who progressed through the Sunderland youth system and now play elsewhere. How many can you remember?
9. Mikael Mandron
Another who will need little introduction given he has already scored twice against the Black Cats this season. The French striker has become a proven quantity in the EFL and is now a regular at Gillingham. Photo: Nick Taylor
10. Louis Laing
After a single Premier League appearance for Sunderland, Laing departed in 2014 for Nottingham Forest. He plied his trade in the EFL and Scottish Premier League before dropping into non-league, where he now represents Darlington. Photo: Jeff Holmes
11. Ben Wilson
The stopper spent a number of years on Wearside but, having found first-team football hard to come by, departed in 2013. He is now playing for Coventry City in League One. Photo: Paul Thomas
12. Nathan Thomas
Thomas joined Sunderland from Newcastle United before graduating through the Academy of Light. He’s become a regular fixture in the EFL, but is currently on the books of Premier League side Sheffield United - albeit he has spent the current season on loan in League Two with Carlisle United. Photo: Pete Norton