Much has been made of the impact the Africa Cup of Nations could have on Sunderland’s fortunes over the next few weeks. Yet much like their impressive adaptation to life in the Premier League, they seem to take it all in their stride.
Without four of those who helped them record a derby victory over Newcastle last week because of the tournament that kicks off in Morocco on Sunday, Sunderland showed their fighting qualities with a gritty defensive display against a misfiring Brighton team who have lost their way in recent weeks.
