There is a monumental clash on the horizon, though, as Bristol City – who leapt above the Baggies – play host on Tuesday night. Here are some Sunderland talking points in the debrief.
Huge call between sticks
Boss Tony Mowbray has stuck with Joe Wildsmith in goal and given his reasons as to why – but that resolve could be further tested now. This is not hindsight, but Alex Palmer was an excellent keeper and his loss has been felt.
Mowbray said after Wildsmith’s error in the 1-1 draw at Burnley last month: “It’s alright. I’ve said that goalies are allowed a mistake now and then – as long as it’s not in every game and he’s costing us goals. He hasn’t been.”
Wildsmith’s gaffe to allow Trai Hume’s free-kick to sneak in, which proved the winner, was his poorest yet for the Baggies and did not help with what little faith supporters had in the 29-year-old.
Scrutiny has intensified, as have the calls for Josh Griffiths to be handed a chance. Griffiths, 23, was recalled in January but has had to make do with a back-up role.
Josh Griffiths in training for Albion. (Photo by Adam Fradgley/West Bromwich Albion FC via Getty Images)
Mowbray suggested it unlikely Wildsmith would be dropped for Griffiths for a crunch clash at Bristol City on Tuesday, where defeat could be fatal for the Baggies’ play-off hopes. The head coach did add he would see how the keeper reacts in training.
There is no way to dress it up other than a huge call at Ashton Gate. If Mowbray shows even more faith in Wildsmith he needs the keeper to repay with error-free displays. Griffiths must be wondering if or when his chance might come – Wildsmith’s position should not cannot be untouchable if mistakes continue.