Last season Sunderland were flying high in the top 6 for much of the season until Darren Bent was sold in January and a terrible run of form hit in February and March and most of April. This run of form gained them only 1 point during 2 and a half months. They did manage to finish 10th due to a decent run of 3 wins in 5 games at the end of the season.

Danny Welbeck has returned to Manchester united after his seasons loan leaving Gyan as their main attacking threat. Sunderland have signed Connor Wickham but he's unproven at this level and it will be interesting to see if he can live up to the hype. Sunderlands defence has been strengthened by the very versatile John O'shea who I was very sad to see leave old Trafford and Wes Brown who was the best Right back in the league in 2008 before injuries hit the last few years.

Blackpool's best player, despite what Liverpool fans will tell you, was David Vaughn and Bruce has strengthened well in my opinion. They look set for a fairly comfortable if not stellar season.

Betting
Sunderland are 9th favourites to lift the title and although that wont happen it does show them to be a mid table team and that seems about right, maybe slightly below half way.

Last Seasons final Position - 10th
Mystic Jarv's prediction for Sunderland in the 2011-2012 Football season - Mid Table
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