Sunderland are now heading into a season defining January transfer window following the departure of Everton loanee Ellis Simms. The Toffees recalled the 21-year-old after an impressive start to the season with the Black Cats, scoring seven goals in 17 games.
The Black Cats have just Ross Stewart left to lead the line, a similar predicament to 12 months ago in the last January window. However, with just six months left of the Scottish strikers contract, Sunderland are facing a headache in the upcoming window.
Simms' departure has somewhat taken the shine off an impressive return to the second tier of English football. Sunderland have defied all expectations and sit fourth in the Championship despite a turbulent start to the season.
