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:
9. Michael Appleton (Lincoln City)
The newly-appointed Lincoln boss was surprised with how Sunderland approached his first game in charge. He said: “It surprised me a little bit that we had to deal with a lot of direct play today. Obviously Wyke is a pivot for them and they do play into him and play off him, but we had to deal with a lot of stuff in the box.” Photo: Stu Forster
10. Joey Barton (Fleetwood Town)
Ah, Joey, We're assuming his tongue was firmly in cheek when he said: “I always love going back to Sunderland. Usually the affection they show to me says that through the course of the year they must pine for me.” Photo: Getty Images
11. Sol Campbell (Southend United)
Campbell, who was interviewed for the Sunderland job, believes their home form will be key: “They have the budget, they have the fans, the home form will definitely get them there, that is key if you want to get in the play-offs and have a chance of going up.” Photo: Jordan Mansfield