Player Ratings: Sunderland 1-4 Manchester City

Costel Pantilimon - 5

You could tell Man City knew him well. No high balls into the box, everything on goal aimed at his feet. Not his best night but no crisis or anything with him either.

Santiago Vergini - 5

Beautiful, but didn;t play especially well. There were his usual dancing feet and spontaneous skipping, though.

John O'Shea - 5

Given the run-around by a brilliant forward in Sergio Aguero. One he'll want to forget quickly.

Sebastian Coates - 4

Poor on the night, but important not to scapegoat the lad. First game in a while and up against a top side. Now isn't the time to judge him.

Anthony Reveillere - 5

Came very close to looking rushed once, but I think he got away with it.

Lee Cattermole - 6

Struggled to be the kind of influence he has been in other games of late, but still a fine specimen of a footballer.

Seb Larsson - 7

Outstanding assist and excellent throughout. Really had a special 2014 so far.

Jack Rodwell - 5

Game passed him by at times, you'd have to say. Again.

Will Buckley - 6

Started really brightly, but faded badly after that. Did okay generally though.

Connor Wickham - 5

Scored a goal, but didn't especially play well. In fact, even the goal was a fluke.

Steven Fletcher - 5

Ball didn't stick with him enough up front. He was isolated in fairness to him, but still.

Jozy Altidore (Sub) - 6

Some decent moments and seems to be determined to give it one last really good go here before January.

Ricky Alvarez (Sub) - 6

Looked very assured on the ball and plenty of encouraging signs there.

Man of the Match: Seb Larsson

Typical Larsson performance, really. Hustled, harried, tackled and provided a couple of chances over the ninety minutes. He's really matured into a very good central midfield player after his early teething problems and I wonder if there are many doubters left out there.