Sky Sports pundit Lee Hendrie was ridiculed back in June, when he predicted Sunderland to finish in the top six. This is what he said at the start of the season...
DESTINED FOR TOP FLIGHT
"I've got them in my top-six. The way I look at Sunderland is that they've been out of the Championship and they're destined for top flight football."
ALEX NEIL IMPACT
"It's taken some time. They've had to change managers. Alex Neil's come in and done a brilliant job - finally got them into the Championship."
MASSIVE CLUB
"I do feel this is going to be a springboard for them I really do. I just think a football club or that stature and size, the fans, their home form is going to be so key for them this season. When you're getting 35,000 plus in the Championship, not many sides get that, so I do think that's an extra man for a football team. I really do. I think Sunderland will certainly be bouncing high and they'll have every chance."
