And yet it has been a bumpy campaign so far, with a youthful group showing a fair amount of inconsistency and with Tony Mowbray departing the club in early December.
With the season just passing the halfway stage, we’ve reviewed the progress of each player to make a Championship appearance so far...
9. TIMOTHÉE PEMBÉLÉ
Injury has limited him to just one substitute appearance but he offered an attacking outlet against Rotherham that hopefully bodes well for the second half of the season. N/A Photo: FRANK REID
10. JOBE BELLINGHAM
Was expected to start some fixtures with a significant number of substitute appearances, and yet has become an almost permanent fixture in the side. Has performed well in a variety of different positions and offered a real goal threat. A superb signing, and a player of serious promise. A+ Photo: Frank Reid
11. PATRICK ROBERTS
A campaign that isn’t easy to judge. Continues to torment opposition defenders and open up the pitch for Sunderland. Goals and assists have thus far proved elusive, however, even if the latter has clearly not been helped by the lack of settled striker in the box to find. A key player moving forward and deserved his new contract ahead of a big 2024. B Photo: Frank Reid
12. ABDOULLAH BA
Made really good progress at the start of the campaign having settled into a right-wing role, and scored important goals against QPR and Watford. Hasn’t been able to maintain that form of late, though being moved around the pitch again has clearly not helped. B- Photo: FRANK REID 2022