It was the final game of the season, with Chelsea travelling north to face Sunderland knowing that three points could secure some form of European qualification.
However, things did not go to plan, as Sunderland emerged victorious to secure Europa League qualification on the final day of their first season back in the Premier League.
The Premier League is now facing a very different Sunderland side. The north-east club currently find themselves rooted to the bottom of the table, with Chelsea looking to gain three points against Sunderland today.
Defensive deterioration
This is arguably Sunderland's biggest concern. Last season, they conceded an average of just 1.26 goals per game, the fourth-best record in the Premier League. This season, however, that figure has risen to 1.89, placing them among the league's weakest defensive sides.
Their expected goals against (xGA) has also increased from 1.43 to 1.75, suggesting that opponents are not only scoring more frequently but also creating better-quality chances.
Much of the problem appears to stem from their vulnerability through the middle. The absence of Dan Ballard, a different-looking Omar Alderete and an error-prone Kevin Danso have all contributed to a less reliable backline. In front of them, Sunderland also have a different version of Granit Xhaka protecting the defence, leaving the side more exposed than they were last season.
Chances wasted
Interestingly, Sunderland are creating more opportunities this season. Their average expected goals has increased from 1.05 to 1.47 per game, while their big chances created have risen from 1.7 to 2.6. However, their goals scored have dropped from 1.11 to 0.78 per game.
They are also missing more big chances, increasing from 1.1 to 1.9 per match. Their attacking output is not necessarily the problem; their ability to make the most of it is. You could blame that one on the kind of strikers that they have at their disposal, with Brain Brobbey not known for his clinical nature, or Wilson Isidor not getting the chances.
More lack of confidence than fatigue
A Europa League campaign can often take its toll on domestic performances, with the demands of Thursday-Sunday fixtures making it difficult to maintain consistency. However, Sunderland's problems appear to go beyond fixture congestion.
A clear lack of confidence throughout the squad, coupled with an inability to grind out results when performances are below par, is beginning to take its toll on both Regis Le Bris and his players.
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