We have reached the finale of my three-part review of the entire Sunderland squad. This is the exciting part, the forwards. This will be fun to write as some of the attacking play has been a joy to watch.
PATRICK ROBERTS
Roberts has had a really successful season, you could argue that he should be getting more than 12 goal contributions, but his insane dribbling makes up for that. His best moment was his brace against Reading, he was unplayable that game. He’s been a key part of our forward line and his partnership with Amad has been great. He’s arguably our most technically gifted player.
AMAD DIALLO
He’s been absolutely immense this season and I don’t think any other Championship player has scored more screamers. He’s had so many great moments, including a wonder strike in the playoff semi final. He has been awarded Supporters Young Player of the Year award, and he is a seriously talented prospect. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him feature in Erik ten Hag’s side next season. I love the lad and he's got an amazing future ahead of him. They say no player is bigger than the club but I think we are lucky to have seen Amad play in the red and white stripes.
JACK CLARKE
Another player who has been immense is Jack Clarke, with his excellent goal against Reading winning the David Dent Goal of the Season award. That goal was definitely his stand out moment. He has picked up 24 goal contributions in all competitions, which is amazing. His stellar performances have garnered the attention of Premier League clubs, with Crystal Palace and Brentford already said to be interested in a move for the winger. Who knows if he will still be here next season.
JEWISON BENNETTE
The young Costa Rican international has captured the heart of the Sunderland fanbase this season, especially when he and his dad took the bus home after a home game. His late equaliser against Watford was certainly his stand out moment, it was a great strike. Not to mention he also gave us a bit of hope at home to Fulham. He looks to be a promising prospect, so I’m sure we will see more of him in the coming years.
ISAAC LIHADJI
Speaking of prospects for the future, Lihadji is just that. He arrived from Lille in January, and has made a few appearances off the bench. He was once nominated for the Golden Boy award, so I am excited to see what he brings next season. Apparently he'd be playing for Barcelona if it wasn't for a broken leg. The Frenchman has been talked up as Amad’s long term replacement, so he has big shoes to fill. I hope the pressure doesn’t hinder him too much.
JOE GELHARDT
Joffy has been a decent option for us, especially considering he was thrown straight in the deep end. He was originally signed to play alongside Ross Stewart, but injuries prevented that partnership from ever coming to fruition. His stand out moments were his goal against Huddersfield and the time he pushed over Darnell Furlong after we scored. He’s a tenacious individual and I’m sure he will do a good job somewhere. But I don’t think that will be here, so I wish him all the best.
ELLIS SIMMS
Unfortunately, Simms was recalled by Everton in January. He was in great form at the time as well. He was a great option and I would welcome him back with open arms. His stand out moments were his debut brace against Bristol City and his last gasp winner against Blackburn. He’s a good forward and he may become a more regular starter for Everton next season.
ROSS STEWART
Finally, let’s talk about Rossco. Injuries have ruined his season and it’s really unfortunate. However, he has picked up 10 goals and three assists in 13 Championship appearances, so when he’s played he has been a great player for us. His stand out moment for us this season was his brace against Rotherham. We still don’t know whether or not he will sign a new deal, but hopefully he will be an option for us next season. He is a top striker.
