Both Sunderland and Sheffield United had a player sent off in their Championship clash on Friday night, which the Blades won.

Sunderland’s 10-game unbeaten run in the Championship came to an end at Bramall Lane on Friday night, with Regis Le Bris’ side losing 1-0.

The Black Cats started steadily and on another night could easily have left with a point, if not all three.

The first half saw both teams have a player sent off: Chris Mepham was shown a straight red in the 40th minute and then Blades defender Harry Souttar was shown a second yellow just before the break.

Patrick Roberts missed a penalty for Sunderland in an eventful first 45. Chris Wilder’s side then scored in the 83rd minute through Tom Davies to seal the win.

Mepham’s red card has garnered a strong reaction on social media. The Welshman slid into Tyrese Campbell who was just outside the box, though whether the Blades striker was in a clear position to score is the debate.

Regis Le Bris shares verdict on Chris Mepham’s red card vs Sheffield United

Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Le Bris painted a very frustrated picture. When asked about Mepham’s red card, he gave a very telling response.

The Frenchman said: “It was difficult to judge. I don’t know. I don’t want to comment.”

Sunderland fans have been impressed by Mepham since his joined on loan from Bournemouth on deadline day in the summer.

Going into the game at Bramall Lane, Mepham was one of three Sunderland players risking a one-game suspension on four yellow cards for the season.

Now though, he’s suspended for three games, and will return after the 19th game of the season where the yellow card count resets.

Anthony Patterson hails Chris Mepham’s Sunderland impact

Speaking before the game against Sheffield United, Black Cats goalkeeper Anthony Patterson gave his verdict on Mepham’s Sunderland form.

And like almost every Sunderland fan, Patterson spoke very highly of the Welsh international, saying: “Mepham has been unbelievable.

“He’s so solid and is concentrating so much all the time and he does his job really, really well. It gives me a big boost. We have a good relationship and I think you can see that on the pitch as well.”

The 27-year-old has featured 13 times in the Championship this season. Missing the next three games, though, it looks as like Le Bris will revert to a centre pairing of Luke O’Nien and Dan Ballard.

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