Sunderland bucking the trend but how bad is it for Wolves?

Given the turbulence at the club over the last decade, Sunderland fans could be forgiven for feeling apprehensive on their return to the Premier League.

Their route back to the top division has been a long one, with the Black Cats experiencing back-to-back relegations and spending four years in League One.

Even last season’s promotion was dramatic.

Having finished 16th the season before, Sunderland upset the odds to beat Sheffield United in the play-off final with a last-gasp winner in injury time at Wembley.

But there has been more than good fortune to Sunderland’s revival.

There were fears after the Black Cats made 14 first-team signings this summer that Le Bris’ side could lose the togetherness that helped them earn promotion.

But the Black Cats have more than maintained the momentum so far this season.

With 14 points from eight matches, Sunderland have matched their best start to a Premier League campaign.

Not that manager Le Bris is taking anything for granted.

“For me it’s just a question of the next game,” he told BBC Sport.

“It’s a long journey and a tough journey. If we can win points early, it’s good for the confidence.”

The Black Cats’ fine start has been built on their home form, with 10 of their 14 points coming at the Stadium of Light – only leaders Arsenal have as many.

Perhaps the most impressive element of Sunderland’s form is that they have bucked the trend of promoted sides in recent times.

Southampton, Leicester and Ipswich – who were all relegated last season having earned promotion the season before – managed just 14 points between them after eight matches last season. Sunderland have already matched that total on their own.

In fact, Sunderland’s points tally is the best from a promoted since since Wolves in the 2018-19 campaign.

If 40 points is the benchmark for survival, then Sunderland are already well on their way to safety.