Whilst Sunderland's evolution has been incredibly impressive in the last year or so, it has left one player behind and they are ready to force a summer departure.
Sunderland star ready to force summer exit
The Black Cats may have dropped off ever so slightly in recent weeks, but that hasn't taken away from what has been an excellent return to the Premier League.
Regis Le Bris' side are just four points away from the magic 40 mark and we're only in February. They're even level on points with rivals Newcastle United, who believed they were years ahead of those in Wearside. And, at this stage, their shock European ambitions are still very much alive and kicking.
Following a narrow victory over Oxford United, Sunderland also have the FA Cup to focus on. Given that they'll face either Bristol City or Port Vale in the next round, they stand every chance of taking a step closer to Wembley for the first time since that famous playoff final last year.
It's been an ambitious evolution off the pitch too, and one that is likely to continue even after the shock departure of sporting director Kristjaan Speakman.
Chairman Kyril Louis-Dreyfus revealed the news, saying: "Kristjaan has made an important contribution to Sunderland AFC during a period of significant transition and growth, helping to rebuild the club and restore its place in the Premier League.
"Strong foundations have been established throughout our football operations over the past five years, and that phase of redevelopment is now complete."
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It's a ruthless move and may be the beginning of a number of exits, including that of Wilson Isidor. According to Football Insider, Isidor is ready to force a Sunderland departure this summer after falling down the pecking order.
Sunderland must replace unhappy Isidor
It's not the first time that exit rumours have centred around the forward, of course. In the January transfer window, Sunderland reportedly rebuffed efforts from Everton to secure his signature, despite his limited starts under Le Bris in the Premier League this season.
wilson-isidor-sunderland
For Sunderland, it's a tough spot to be in. Whilst Brian Brobbey has nailed down that striker spot, £25,000-a-week Isidor remains an impressive backup and that doesn't come around all too often.
Isidor at Sunderland Record
Appearances 72
Goals 17
Assists 2
Praised for his "excellent" finishing by former Sunderland striker Marco Gabbiadini, Isidor will be a tough man to replace if he does force his way out of Wearside this summer.
Rumours suggest that Sunderland will certainly remain ambitious this summer, though. They've already been linked with moves for both Tyrell Malacia and Chelsea's Liam Delap.
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The latter would be the perfect replacement for Isidor and would push Brobbey all the way for a starting place. After struggling to adapt to life at Stamford Bridge, the former Ipswich Town forward may yet find himself available.