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...
17. DAN NEIL
Has been a model of consistency in the centre of midfield. Added goals to his game after being given more attacking licence, and looks destined for the very top. Is a real leader on and off the pitch despite his young age. A+ Photo: Frank Reid
18. BRADLEY DACK
Scored against Southampton but his progress has been stop-start since then. Injuries have prevented him holding down a regular place in the team and making a regular contribution. C- Photo: FRANK REID
19. PIERRE EKWAH
Started the season in excellent form, peaking with an outrageously good performance against Southampton. A dead leg which proved more serious than initially imagined impacted his progress, and it has taken him time to recapture his sharpness. A strong showing at Hull City offered hope he is nearly there. Subject of big bids at the end of the summer window and may be so again in January with reported Premier League interest. B+ Photo: FRANK REID
20. MASON BURSTOW
Burstow played a part in one of Sunderland’s best runs of form in the season to date, helping to knit the attacking play together. Goals and chances proved elusive, though, and eventually led to the management looking elsewhere. Has struggled for any kind of regular game time since then, meaning that both player and club have a big decision to make in the January window - it hasn’t worked out so far. C- Photo: Frank Reid