While some have hailed the Wearsiders as the best side in the third tier, others have questioned their ‘direct’ approach and some seemingly ‘horrendous’ incidents that have occurred during their games. Scroll down and click through the pages to see what managers have said before and after facing the Black Cats this season:
1. Karl Robinson (Oxford United)
Robinson was full of praise for the Black Cats after their opening day draw, but was frustrated his side couldn't find a winner. He said: "We deserved a lot more than we got against the best team in the league away from home." Photo: Naomi Baker
2. Paul Lambert (Ipswich Town)
The Ipswich chief felt Sunderland didn't pose his side many problems when they met at Portman Road, saying: "We were excellent. I can't complain aobut the way we played the whole game. If we don't make that error we win the game. Sunderland never hurt us or created many chances. It never felt threatening." Photo: Stephen Pond
3. John Coleman (Accrington Stanley)
Sunderland were no better than Accrington, according to their manager. Coleman said: “We’ve lost to Sunderland the club, not Sunderland the team. That’s the only way I can equate it to our players. They were no better than us.” Photo: George Wood
4. Kenny Jackett (Portsmouth)
Speaking before the two sides met in August, Pompey boss Jackett backed the Black Cats for promotion. He told the Portsmouth News: “Any time you go up and play Sunderland it’s something to look forward to but similarly a big challenge to try to get a result. I’m sure they will be there or thereabouts and have ambitions to do well.” Photo: Catherine Ivill