The EFL are set to decide leagues which cannot be completed via an unweighted points per game system, in a plan which would see the Wearsiders finish seventh.
But which games could have ultimately cost Sunderland promotion? We take a look at nine games where dropped points could come back to haunt the Black Cats if League One is determined in this manner:
1. Bolton 1-1 Sunderland (21 September 2019)
The Black Cats travelled to Bolton having lost just once in League One, but couldn’t find their way past a Bolton side bolstered by some more experienced recruits. It took a late Aiden McGeady penalty to salvage anything from a game that Sunderland should have comfortably won. Photo: FRANK REID
2. Lincoln City 2-0 Sunderland (5 October 2019)
This proved to be Jack Ross’ final game in the dugout and, given the relative ease with which Sunderland brushed past the Imps later in the season, represented a disappointing reverse. Photo: FRANK REID
3. Sunderland 1-2 Burton Albion (26 November 2019)
In the midst of a poor run of form under new manager Phil Parkinson, Sunderland failed to build on Aiden McGeady’s early penalty. Indeed, their lead lasted less than a minute - as the Black Cats crumbled on home soil. Photo: FRANK REID
4. Gillingham 1-0 Sunderland (7 December 2019)
Sunderland could feel aggrieved not to have taken anything from this game, given Charlie Wyke controversially saw a goal ruled-out late on, but it was another disappointing result in a game which Parkinson’s side really ought to have won. Photo: FRANK REID