FPL promoted teams: Who are the best Sunderland midfielders + forwards?

What Is Sunderland’s Goal-Scoring Potential in FPL?

Sunderland wrapped up their 2024/25 Championship campaign with a respectable overall record:

At home, they were particularly strong, scoring 32 goals and conceding just 18. On the road, however, they were more conservative, managing 26 goals while conceding the same number.

Still, their 58 goals across the season were bettered by eight other Championship sides. Even with five additional strikes in the play-offs, it’s clear they didn’t match the attacking firepower of automatic promotion rivals — Leeds United (95 goals) and Burnley (69 goals).

Historically, only three teams in the Premier League era have been promoted from the Championship with fewer goals than Sunderland. That alone raises questions about their Fantasy Premier League (FPL) attacking potential heading into the 2025/26 season.

Tactical Context Under Le Bris

Despite their modest goal return, context is crucial. Sunderland’s form dipped after a goalless draw at Norwich City confirmed their place in the play-offs — a stretch of five straight defeats where they scored just once. That slump aligned with Régis Le Bris rotating his squad heavily to preserve fitness for the season’s climax.

Importantly, Le Bris implemented a highly effective counter-attacking setup in 2025, making Sunderland one of the Championship’s most dangerous teams in transition — a style that could translate well to the Premier League.

Squad Changes and Fixture Advantage

However, the summer departures of Jobe Bellingham and Tom Watson significantly weaken Sunderland’s attacking depth, increasing the difficulty of their survival bid.

That said, the club has acted swiftly in the transfer market, bringing in Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki for a combined £50 million — both players offering dynamism and energy that could reinvigorate the squad.

Crucially for FPL managers, Sunderland’s early schedule is extremely favourable. They top the Season Ticker for the first six Gameweeks, suggesting a strong start is possible if their attacking chemistry clicks.