“”Well, I think what we don’t want is a scenario like we’ve had the last two seasons, where a Championship side is promoted and then immediately relegated,” Grey explained.

“The three teams who have emerged, notwithstanding Burnley’s dismal record, have all faced formidable opponents.

“They performed well in those games. I was at Old Trafford when Burnley faced Manchester United, and they had a great chance to win. They could have held on for a 0-0 draw against Liverpool, but a late goal proved to be the difference. Scott Parker’s actions are effective, and things will improve for them.

However, when we were promoted under Peter Reid in 1999-2000, we finished seventh in both seasons. Peter stated to us, ‘Right, this is how we’re going to box four or five games off, and this is the number of points we can strive for in these blocks.’

“At the outset of the season, he instructed us to set ourselves up by scoring early. That way, if we went into a game expecting to win but didn’t, we could rely on our existing points. Despite this, we approached games with confidence. When I see Sunderland play right now, I get the same vibe:

the players are fearless. Everyone is having a good time and going out to express themselves. It’s structured, but when they come to the final third, I believe Régis Le Bris is telling them:

‘Go ahead and express yourself. Go do what I see you doing on the training ground every day, but in the Premier League. “The Sunderland fans have completely bought into it, and they’re having a great time.

I look at Leeds and Burnley similarly, but as you indicated, home form is quite important. Sunderland will most likely face relegation by the conclusion of the season, as stated by the speaker. I believe Leeds United and Burnley will also be there. But look at Wolves, West Ham, and Brentford: you never know what to expect from them week to week.

.There will be other sides in the bottom, making this a far more competitive fight than the previous two seasons. But what I’ve seen so far from Sunderland has been absolutely fantastic.”

When asked if he feels the Black Cats will survive, Grey expressed confidence, but cautioned that the Africa Cup of Nations might be a defining test.

“I believe they will, I honestly do. “I think they’ll get enough,” he added. “The big thing for me is the AFCON, which runs through December and January.” They have nine, maybe ten players that could participate in the competition; that will be a major test.

 It depends how many games Sunderland have to play without their so-called best eleven. If they can get through that period, they’ll give themselves a real good chance.”

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