Sunderland vs Burnley: Player Ratings

Costel Pantilimon - 7

Steady as always, despite a couple of awkward situations to deal with. Never really forced into that big save, though.

Anthony Reveillere - 9

A hugely assured performance from a hugely assured footballer. Created the first goal into the bargain too.

Santiago Vergini - 7

A very good performance. Looked much more comfortable back at the heart of a four-man defence, though Burnley never really tested him.

John O'Shea - 8

Continues his quietly outstanding season. Commands the defence with genuine authority.

Patrick van Aanholt - 9

The man of the match, I think.

Liam Bridcutt - 7

Started the game looking nervy but settled more as the game progressed and played his part.

Seb Larsson - 8

He did his usual thing, really. Had a big role in the opening goal.

Jordi Gomez - 8

Probably his best game in a Sunderland shirt. Didn't take the pace out of attacks like he's been guilty of in the past and showed some real creativity in the build-up to the second goal.

Adam Johnson - 7

Not at his best but he was good enough to be a constant factor in the game.

Connor Wickham - 8

Looked so happy with a partner who was happy to go beyond him. Scored one goal and was robbed of another by a whistle-happy referee.

Jermain Defoe - 8

Grabbed that all important first goal for the club and some of his movement was excellent.

Steven Fletcher - 5

STOP DOING POINTLESS STUPID SH*TTY LITTLE FLICKS MAN!!!!

Danny Graham - 6

Workhorse cameo from Graham. Fair play.

Ricky Alvarez - 5

No time to do anything, but nice to know he's still alive.

Man Of The Match: Patrick van Aanholt

Just shaded it for me ahead of his fellow full-back Anthony Reveillere. He found that perfect balance between being a winger when needed without getting caught out at the back. Excellent assist for the second goal and could have easily had a couple more too. Fair play also to Jordi Gomez for making the most of Van Aanholt when he was in this kind of mood.