The Black Cats, under Tony Mowbray’s leadership, secured a top-six spot on the final day of the previous season by defeating Preston North End. The 59-year-old manager aims to repeat this success in the current season and bring Premier League football back to the Stadium of Light, a feat not accomplished since 2017.
Since taking charge at the Stadium of Light, Mowbray has transformed one of the youngest teams in the division and instilled confidence in the squad, making them believe they can compete with the top teams in the Championship.
One player who has consistently impressed is central defender Dan Ballard, who had to spend most of the previous season sidelined due to foot and hamstring injuries. When fit, the Northern Ireland international made 19 appearances and established himself as a key player in Sunderland’s defense.
Given Ballard’s quality, some Premier League clubs may be interested in securing his services if the right offer comes along, with West Ham being linked in this summer’s transfer window.
With four years left on his current contract, Sunderland could demand a substantial transfer fee for the 24-year-old. Football League World has listed five potential replacements for Sunderland if Ballard departs from the North East of England.
1. Charlie Cresswell:
Starting the list is Leeds United’s Charlie Cresswell, who excelled during his first Championship loan with Millwall. He made 28 appearances, narrowly missing out on a play-off place with the Lions last season. The promising 21-year-old was expected to play a significant role at Elland Road under Daniel Farke, but that hasn’t been the case, with limited minutes hindering his development. Sunderland, known for nurturing young talent, may consider pursuing him.
2. Jarell Quansah:
Next is Liverpool’s young talent Jarell Quansah, who made his Premier League debut this season against Wolves. While he delivered a commanding performance, it’s unlikely he can secure consistent playing time ahead of Liverpool’s defensive stalwarts. Liverpool may opt to loan Quansah for further development, and Sunderland could provide him with the experience of being part of a promotion push.
3. Ashley Phillips:
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Ashley Phillips is a young defender who spent time in the second tier, registering eight league appearances with Blackburn before being signed by Premier League’s Tottenham Hotspur. Mowbray, with previous connections to the 18-year-old, may be interested in reuniting with him on a loan deal. Mowbray previously praised Phillips, describing him as an exceptional young talent.
4. Gabriel Osho:
Gabriel Osho is another defender who competed at the top of the Championship, securing promotion through the play-offs with Luton Town last season. The 25-year-old seamlessly fit into Luton Town’s setup and featured 27 times in the regular season, starting in their play-off final victory over Coventry City. While regular Premier League minutes are not guaranteed, Osho may be open to a return to the Championship to contribute to another promotion-winning season and pass on his experience to Sunderland’s squad members.
5. James Tomkins:
The list is rounded off by veteran defender James Tomkins, who may be seeking a new challenge due to limited opportunities at Crystal Palace. With over 250 combined Premier League appearances for Crystal Palace and West Ham, along with more than 50 games in the second tier, Tomkins offers extensive experience and a promotion on his CV with West Ham during the 2011/12 season. His experience and versatility in both top divisions could help organize Sunderland’s defense and contribute to a more consistent run of results in their quest for promotion to the Premier League.