Overview

• Sunderland went unbeaten in September, taking five points from three matches and conceding once to sit fifth in the Premier League.
• Omar Alderete sealed the month with a 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest, heading in the decisive goal at the City Ground.
• Captain Granit Xhaka earned a Player of the Month nod after key contributions, including two assists across the unbeaten run.
• Goalkeeper Robin Roefs also made the shortlist following two clean sheets and 15 saves in three games, six of them at Crystal Palace.
• Head coach Regis Le Bris reported no new injuries and confirmed Nordi Mukiele is fit ahead of the Manchester United trip, while saying loanee Lutsharel Geertruida remains a centre-back by profile with versatility and a reported option to buy.