After forcing their way into the Premier League in what turned out to be an incredibly dramatic comeback in the Championship Play-Off Finals, Sunderland AFC find themselves back where they belong in England’s top flight. After spending eight years outside of the Premier League, Sunderland experienced several ups and downs, facing back to back relegation and even play-off heartbreak. With a reputation for having some of the most loyal and dedicated supporters in the country, they will be needed more than ever in their attempt to break the yo-yo cycle and remain in the league.
So today, BoyleSports, former sponsors of the Black Cats, who present live games such as online roulette, will be taking a look at the five players who will be key to Sunderland’s Premier League survival.
Granit Xhaka
By far one of the most shocking transfers of the 2025 transfer window, Granit Xhaka joined the Black Cats as their new captain to prepare for the Premier League season ahead. After captaining Bayer Leverkusen to success that has never been seen before in the club’s history, the Swiss midfielder made the move to Wearside in hopes of challenging himself and helping this historic club stay where it belongs. His incredible ability on the ball, leadership that he showed during his time at both Arsenal and Leverkusen, as well as his trophy winning mentality, make him the perfect player to guide the club into safety. The 33-year-old has so far impressed during his performances in red and white, endearing himself as a fan favourite at the Stadium of Light.
Robin Roefs
Despite being 22, Robin Roefs will have a lot of responsibility on his hands and will be a massive figure for Sunderland throughout the course of the season. The Netherlands youth goalkeeper joined alongside Xhaka in the 2025 summer window, coming off the back of a strong campaign with NEC Nijmegen. Roefs is not only there to help provide a strong defence between the sticks, but is also there to prove a point as a top goalkeeper and elevate his career. It is undeniable that the number 22 has shown his skill set so far into the season, displacing the previous Anthony Patterson, another top goalkeeper. As the season continues, we will hopefully see more from Roefs, who may well be the difference in Sunderland, either having a strong or poor return to the Premier League.
Trai Hume
Despite being newly promoted, Sunderland’s back line is incredibly strong, with the likes of Dan Ballard, Reinildo, Mukiele and Alderete featuring frequently in the starting 11, but Trai Hume is the player we are highlighting as someone who could really be the difference. The reason Trai Hume could be the difference in Sunderland’s backline is what he brings to the team in terms of providing something different to what established Premier League players are maybe used to. Hume is well known for his powerful tackles and desire to win every ball near him, as well as the ability to step forward on the counter. Quick and skilful wingers are popular in the Premier League; however, Hume’s physicality and strong but fair challenges are something not commonly seen in modern football, maybe causing established Premier League players some issues.
Noah Sadiki
A similar situation to Roefs, Noah Sadiki has joined the tough battle of keeping Sunderland up at the young age of 20, not just for experience, but to make a name for himself in football. The midfielder has experience in European football prior to his move from Union SG, but the tempo of the Premier League and competition is an unmatched challenge for any player. His incredible engine means he can control the midfielder for 90 minutes, either sweeping across the front of the defence or pushing forward to release the likes of Talbi, Adingra, Mayenda, Isidor and Le Fee, a plethora of attacking talent. So far, Sadiki has looked extremely sharp in red and white, and one of the main reasons for the strong performances put in by the Black Cats. He has a big part to play in maintaining this great start for the Wearside based club.
Luke O’Nien
Luke O’Nien has a massive part in the mission of keeping Sunderland in the top flight, despite potentially not playing too many minutes. The versatile Sunderland defender signed in 2018, experiencing the struggles of League One, the difficulty in the Championship, and the glory of promotion to the Premier League. Over the years, the Englishman has had to adapt to numerous positions and power the team forward with his strong mindset and incredible leadership qualities. The now 30 year old is loved by fans due to his loyalty and love for the club, earning himself the nickname ‘Mr Sunderland’. The passion and determination will be a huge benefit to Regis le Bris’ squad, whether that be in the dressing room, coming off the bench, or even starting when needed, not to mention his unique personality and his unpredictable behaviour that we have seen over the last few years.
