Luke O’Nien gives verdict on how Sunderland have adapted to the Championship | OneFootball

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Football League World

·3 October 2022

Luke O’Nien gives verdict on how Sunderland have adapted to the Championship

Article image:Luke O’Nien gives verdict on how Sunderland have adapted to the Championship

After four years away in League One, Sunderland gained promotion back to the Championship last season as they beat Wycombe Wanderers in the play-off final.

Things haven’t been completely plain sailing this season following the departure of Alex Neil but the Black Cats seem to have adapted to Tony Mowbray fairly well and they sit eighth in the league.


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A 0-0 draw against Preston at the weekend takes Sunderland to three games unbeaten, a run they will be looking to extend as they welcome Blackpool this week.

Analysing how his side have adapted to the Championship, long serving player Luke O’Nien told the Chronicle: “I feel like even in League One there were difficult games and different challenges and I think it’s the same in this league.

“There are going to be better players but the challenges are still something that we have to overcome together and we have the players that have been dealing with the level very, very well. Credit to the rest of the players and staff for setting us all up well.

“We are working had together and we just have to continue to do that. I think we are sitting not too bad in the table.

“There is room for improvement and room to do better but I feel like we have a real good squad. In terms of going in every day it’s enjoyable, the lads are learning fast and we are in a good position.

“It’s important now that we keep going up, we keep improving and keep getting better.”

Quiz: Did Sunderland win, draw or lose the last time they played at these 18 stadiums?

1 of 18

Article image:Luke O’Nien gives verdict on how Sunderland have adapted to the Championship

Selhurst Park?

Win Draw Loss

The Verdict:

Whilst Sunderland as a club have experience in the higher leagues, it’s been a while since they were in the top tiers so the players won’t all be used to this level.

However, so far the team has adapted well and that will be helped by the management of both Alex Neil and Tony Mowbray who are experienced managers at this level.

When you look at Sunderland’s current form, they are doing okay and have adapted well as you definitely see them remaining a Championship team this season although they will no doubt be keen to push as high as they can .

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