Phil Smith gives his honest opinion on Sunderland’s promotion hopes following the Leeds United draw.

Phil Smith has weighed in on Sunderland’s chances of promotion following their 2-2 draw with Leeds United.

Sunderland maintained their top place in the Championship after securing a last-gasp point against Leeds at the Stadium of Light.

After Illan Meslier’s mistake, Alan Browne scored his first goal of the season, followed by Chris Rigg, Joel Piroe, and Junior Firpo.

Rigg broke Jude Bellingham’s goal-per-game record at Birmingham City, playing alongside Dennis Cirkin.

Sunderland secured a point under unusual circumstances, but Regis Le Bris confessed he made a mistake with his system, opening with a 5-4-1 shape.

However, their determination to grab a point in the final minute was the mark of promotion candidates, and this was not a position many expected Le Bris’ team to be in at the start.

Phil Smith on Sunderland’s promotion hopes following the Leeds United tie

Sunderland fans will recognize that this is merely the beginning of their season, and that consistency will get them through.

The Black Cats shown enough talent in Friday night’s draw to suggest they may be among the league’s top two in the coming months.

Respected writer Phil Smith disagrees, believing that clubs are beginning to find out how to break down Sunderland’s defense and that the squad now lacks depth.

Smith commented on Sunderland’s top two chances on the On The Whistle YouTube channel: “I think Sunderland have played really well, but I don’t think they’ve been as strong defensively as they were in the first block of games at the start of the season.”

“I believe clubs have figured out how to generate opportunities against them, so it’s a little early to say Sunderland are true top-two candidates. Also, given what I stated about the squad’s depth, I’m not convinced it’s ready to be a top-two contender.”

Dan Ballard and Eliezer Mayenda’s return will be a significant boost to Sunderland.

Le Bris was chastised for holding his substitutes till late against Leeds, but considering his squad’s present absences, he may be excused.

New signing. Aaron Connolly was selected on the bench but will not be ready until after the internationals. Le Bris said that Dan Ballard and Eliezer Mayenda may return after the break.

Sunderland’s defense is led by Ballard, who can start or finish games, while Mayenda is a strong attacker.

Fans will be hoping that the 19-year-old striker can continue his impressive form after starting with two goals and two assists in six games.

The impending return of those two players, in particular, might be the spark for Sunderland to remain competitive at the top of the league.

Read more on sportupdates.co.uk