I personally think the team underachieved - on paper we have a half decent side. I think we lacked management: Keane walked out as he couldn't handle it, and Ricky Sbragia tried his best but he's just not a manager. I expected to finish 10th or 11th, I didn't think it would take us to the last game.
Who was Sunderland's player of the year?
Danny Collins. Although he's not one of our biggest named players he was certainly the most consistent.
Who were the best players you saw play against Sunderland?
Tevez for Man United: cracking player.
Which, if any, Stoke players impressed you this season?
Liam Lawrence, I rated him highly when he played for us and he's gone on
to do a top job for your team, but he was a naughty lad making his home
movies. I can see why Keane had to get rid of him, but I'd of liked to of
kept him.
What are your thoughts on Stoke City?
They did well and very well as at home, but I think they rely too much on
Delap's throw-in's, now they have secured themselves in the premiership
they need to buy this summer.
Where do you need to strengthen this summer?
Pretty much everywhere. We need a big name manager now that we've got a new owner who is ready to flash the cash. We found out this season it's difficult to attract big signings in the North East even if you have the money to spend. We had money to spend and did spend it, but I don't think we'd have got some of the players we did if it weren't for Roy Keane and who he is.
A striker should be top of our list.
Who'll be on their way out?
We've already let a few go, Yorke being the most notable but at 38 he had to go.
I hope Daryl Murphy, Dean Whitehead, Halford and McShane all go.
Sunderland's best 11 of the season?
Gordon
Bardsley Davenport Ferdinand Collins
Steed Tanio Richardson Leadbitter Reid
Jones
Bardsley Davenport Ferdinand Collins
Steed Tanio Richardson Leadbitter Reid
Jones
Daryl Baker is editor of The Black Cats