Sunderland fans were all talking about one player during the win against Derby County, and it wasn’t Jobe Bellingham.

Sunderland claimed a routine 2-0 win against Derby County in the Championship on Tuesday night.

It’s a sixth win of the season for Regis Le Bris’ side who return to 1st place of the table following last weekend’s defeat against Watford.

The Black Cats have a 100% record at the Stadium of Light and eased past Deby County who languish in the bottom half of the table.

Bellingham’s goal drew a lot of attention on social media; the 19-year-old struck into the top left corner from 25 yards for his first goal of the season.

But Black Cats fans seemed to have their eyes on another player on the pitch on Tuesday night; Romaine Mundle.

Romaine Mundle shines for Sunderland vs Derby County

Mundle joined Sunderland from Standard Liege in January, and he had big shoes to fill this season.

Jack Clarke’s move to Ipswich Town left a void on the left side of the Sunderland starting XI. But Clarke’s not been missed at all.

Former Spurs man Mundle has three goals in seven eight Championship outings for the Black Cats this season, also grabbing his first assist of the season vs Derby County.

He showed some good footwork to get into position to set up Isidor for the goal, with his assist the highlight of his strong performance.

Fans on social media described Mundle as ‘class’ and ‘quality’, with one fan adding: “I was a huge Jack Clarke fan but Mundle is very much his equal.”

Another Black Cats supporter posted: “Mundle is an absolute beast of a player, so exciting to watch, fantastic work to set up Isidor for the second.”

Meanwhile, journalist Michael Graham posted: “I love Jack Clarke, but don’t think he’s setting someone else up from that position like Mundle did. Different types of players but seemingly no dip in product.”

Other comments read: “Mundle absolutely backing himself every time. Love the bottle on him!” and “Excellent from the second Jack Clarke left.”

Regis Le Bris holds the key for Romaine Mundle this season

Mundle has certainly shown promise early doors. But there’s still a long way ahead this season, and with Sunderland likely being near the top of the table, it’ll prove to be a really mentally draining season too.

Le Bris will have to ensure he utilises his other options efficiently, like Tom Watson, in order to give Mundle and the rest of the first-team players the necessary resting time throughout the season.

If Le Bris can find a balance with Mundle, keep him fit and also keep him firing, then the 21-year-old could be in for a very impressive campaign.

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