Harrison Jones and the next Jordan Henderson – the Sunderland youngsters set for breakout season
Sunderland have produced some outstanding players from their academy in recent times, with several in the first team.
Jordan Henderson and Jordan Pickford are the two most notable graduates and are now England internationals.
Now, Anthony Patterson, Dan Neil, and Chris Rigg are all staples of the Sunderland squad, although they will face competition next season.
Although there have been a raft of new arrivals, Mackem News identifies the three players poised for a breakout season on Wearside.
Harrison Jones to be given Sunderland chance by Regis Le Bris
Le Bris afforded Jones a run in the Sunderland first team last season ahead of the Championship the play-offs.
The attacking midfielder did his reputation wonders at a time when the Black Cats were struggling for form.
| Harrison Jones’ 2024/25 Championship statistics | Total |
| Appearances (starts) | 4 (2) |
| Touches | 18.5 |
| Accurate passes | 11.8 (87%) |
| Total duels won | 1.5 (50%) |
Jones has featured in pre-season, although he was played as a full back in the absence of a fit left sided defender.
Although opportunities will be sparse in the Premier League, the Englishman should be given chances at least as a substitute.
The 20-year-old has already shown a maturity to his game and his first touch and technical ability are a real strength.
Read more: Jones sends message to Le Bris after impressive Sunderland playoff audition
Trey Samuel-Ogunsuyi to build reputation on Wearside
Sunderland may have tied Eliezer Mayenda down to a new contract, but he is not the only young attacking talent at the Stadium of Light.
That is because Samuel-Ogunsuyi has been impressing at youth level and it has not gone unnoticed.
The 18-year-old bagged 14 goals across 14 appearances in the Premier League 2 and and the Under-18 Premier League.
Samuel-Ogunsuyi’s performances have caught Liverpool’s attention, although he has remained in the North East.
While he will be unlikely to receive any opportunities in the Premier League, he could feature in the cup competitions.
As well as his finishing, the teenager has demonstrated excellent movement and can be a physical presence up top.
Jaydon Jones can look up to Jordan Henderson
Jones recently signed a professional contract with Sunderland and he has been tipped for big things at the Stadium of Light.
Like Samuel-Ogunsuyi, the central midfielder has been electric at youth level and could be the next academy player to make the step up.
The 18-year-old’s work ethic and intensity mean he should make a smooth transition into the senior team when called upon.
Given his position, comparisons to Henderson could follow, although supporters would rather he makes a name for himself on Wearside.
While Premier League chances are unlikely, Jones could also play in the cup competitions next season.
- Le Bris should hand Harrison Jones his Premier League debut this season
- Samuel-Ogunsuyi and Jaydon Jones could be given cup chances
- Sunderland can bring more players through the academy
The Black Cats are making a step up this season, with a wealth of new signings primed to make an impact.
However, Le Bris can call upon his younger players when needed, who can follow in the footsteps of their idols.
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