Tom Fellows signs, Patterson replaced – Sunderland predicted XI next season
Sunderland will have a significant amount of work to do on the recruitment front if they achieve promotion.
As things stand, Sunderland have a great chance to make a return to the Premier League, though it’s likely to hinge on their ability to win the playoffs.
Their latest 3-0 defeat to Coventry all but ended any hopes of a top-two finish, with the final run-in only likely to provide them with a chance to build momentum.
However, if promotion is achieved, the Black Cats will have a lot of work to do in the summer as Mackem News predicts how they could line up.
Sunderland to sign Anthony Patterson replacement
Anthony Patterson has struggled as of late, and Sunderland will need to improve in that area to have any chance of success next season.
With that in mind, Jack Butland could be a potential option for Sunderland, depending on how the remainder of the current campaign pans out for Rangers.
Trai Hume and Dennis Cirkin would likely retain their place in the starting 11, with the permanent addition of Chris Mepham in the heart of the defence.
As good as Luke O’Nien has been this season, Sunderland will need to sign a centre-back able to compete in the Premier League and with Southampton on their way back to the Championship, it may be worth a look at Taylor Harwood-Bellis.
In midfield, Dan Neil would captain Sunderland in the Premier League, with Jobe Bellingham partnering Enzo Le Fee slightly higher.
| Sunderland | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Chances created |
| Enzo Le Fee | 8 | 1 | 1 | 12 |
Sunderland have an obligation to turn his loan into a permanent one if they are to achieve promotion back to the Premier League, and given the talent that has been on show this season, very few would turn their nose up at that.
Sunderland need attacking reinforcements
In terms of attack, Sunderland have a lot of improvement to make given the frailties that have been on show in the Championship this season.
On the left, Sunderland could potentially pursue a loan deal for Tottenham talent Mikey Moore.
Romaine Mundle and Tommy Watson have both impressed at times throughout the campaign, but there would be question marks as to how much they could contribute in the next step.
On the opposite flank, Sunderland could make an ambitious swoop for West Brom attacker Tom Fellows, given the fact he is unlikely to be keen on the idea of sticking around in the Championship for another season.
Wilson Isidor should be afforded the opportunity to lead the line for the Wearsiders, though an extra body in that area will be required.