The curtain only fell on the 2022/23 Championship campaign over the weekend but the wheels are already in motion as Sunderland prepare for their second season back in the second tier. The Black Cats surpassed any pre-season expectation of consolidation with a play-off finish, albeit their were comfortably beaten by eventual play-off winners Luton Town in the second leg at Kenilworth Road.
The red and white faithful had very little argument over the end result with the Hatters returning to the Premier League. Leicester City, Southampton and Leeds United will head the other way with all three enduring a torrid campaign.
The relegation of the Whites means it's unlikely Joe Gelhardt will return to the Stadium of Light next season, at least in a red and white shirt. The young striker, who signed for the Black Cats on loan, is highly thought of at Elland Road and is expected to be given an opportunity to impress next season.
