Sunderland 3 - 0 Everton - Player Ratings

Vito Mannone – 9

Made crucial saves in the second half to keep Everton at bay. Looks like the keeper that won player of the year a few years ago.

Patrick Van Aanholt – 9

Defended extremely well all night. Worked his socks off and proved a threat going forward. Grabbed a goal with a free kick even if it was a tad lucky.

DeAndre Yedlin – 9

Real threat going forward with his electric pace. Solid at the back

Younes Kaboul – 10

MOTM - See below

Lamine Kone – 10

Two goals, had Lukaku in his back pocket and is truly a fan favourite. The imposing Frenchman was just faultless.

Jan Kirchhoff – 9

So cool and composed on the ball. Starts our attacks and his impeccable reading of the game thwarted Everton all night.

Lee Cattermole – 8

Typical Cattermole performance. Battled with passion and fight, he really does come into his own when the chips are down.

Yann M’Vila – 10

Covered every blade of grass. Composed on the ball and won the battle in the middle of the park. Sam has to sign him, he looks at home here and really seems to buy into what the club is about. With a full pre season behind him we could have a real player on our hands.

Wahbi Khazri – 8

Ran all day and proved a real threat from set pieces. Should have done better with the chance late in the game.

Fabio Borini – 7

All the effort in the word but a frustrating evening for the Italian. Ball didn't seem to stick and his passing was wayward.

Jermain Defoe – 8

Cut a frustrated figure for most of the evening but held the ball up well. We could all see how much he wanted a goal but it just wouldn't fall for him. Let's be honest, we'd be a Championship club without this man.

John O’Shea – 7 (sub)

Brought on for Catts, didn't put a foot wrong.

Duncan Watmore – 7 (sub)

Full of pace and energy

Seb Larsson – 7 (sub)

Came on late to add bite and determination and that’s exactly what he did.

The Fans – 10

Absolutely incredible. Proud as punch!

Man of the Match - Younes Kaboul

He was on fire! The Frenchman was outstanding, genuinely one of the most imposing defensive performances I've seen in a Sunderland shirt.