Football Season Guide

Sunderland finally managed to free themselves from League One last season after a four year spell in English football’s third tier. They did it the hard way coming through the playoffs. The appointment of Alex Neil was key to Sunderland’s promotion last season. When he took charge in February it looked like the Black Cats might not even make the playoffs but he turned around results. Sunderland ended last season on a 16-match unbeaten run (10 wins, six draws). The North East side have managed to so far hold onto their key assets from last season including 26-goal top scorer Stewart and creative midfielder Pritchard. They have a squad that is full of Championship experience with players like Danny Batth and Corry Evans. There haven’t been many incomings yet but they have managed to pull off a coup in capturing young Arsenal centre-back Ballard. The Northern Ireland international had his fair share of suitors this summer after impressive loan spells at Blackpool and Millwall over the last two seasons. On their other additions, wingers Dajaku and Clarke return after spells at the club last season. There is a feelgood factor at Sunderland for the first time in a while and they have the momentum after their superb run to finish last season. Neil has experience of managing in the Championship and their recruitment has been smart.