REALIST: Simon Grayson

SUNDERLAND were roundly accused of lacking fight last season, not least by one of their own players.
The same cannot be said of Simon Grayson’s side. Outplayed for long stretches against Sheffield Wednesday, the Black Cats demonstrated admirable durability and ran themselves to a standstill in earning a 1-1 draw this week.
Yet, for all their discipline and doggedness, it is difficult to see how such a limited side can challenge for promotion.
James Vaughan is brave and bullish but slower than a spring tide. Pace in general is scarce and, for...