Romaine Mundle replaced the departing Jack Clarke in Régis Le Bris’ starting XI for the game against Burnley and duly repaid his manager’s faith by netting the opening goal.
With around five minutes to go team captain Dan Neil was sent off for a second bookable offence as Sunderland looked to hold onto the win. Régis Le Bris side, though, managed to hold on and make it three from three in the league
Here, we take a look at how Phil Smith rated every Sunderland player against Burnley:
5. Luke O'Nien
Another rock solid performance at the heart of defence. Good in the air and made some good interceptions in the second half in particular. 8 | Kian Abdullah/Huw Evans Agency
6. Dan Neil
Played really well but picked up an innocuous yellow card in the first half and cost him when he had to take a gamble to try and cut out a dangerous late break. Thankfully Sunderland were able to hold on. 6 | Getty Images
7. Jobe
Put in a huge shift throughout the game and especially in the first half when he dominated the midfield battle. Spurned one big chance to play Roberts in during the second half with an underhit pass but generally very, very good. 7 | Getty Images
8. Chris Rigg
Totally justified his place, pressed superbly and combined neatly with Roberts over on the right flank. Lovely pass in the build up to the opening goal and another standing ovation when he came off. 7 | Getty Images