6. Ben Alnwick
John Walton/EMPICS SportBen Alnwick emerged during an injury crisis at the club just as we were homing in on promotion back in 2005. But with a string of bright performances, a great deal of excitement surrounded Alnwick. The following season however, he would play second fiddle to newly signed Kelvin Davis mores the pity. Though following relegation Alnwick became hot property again and Spurs were quick to make their advances known. The North London side, so determined to snap up the young goalkeeping and England prospect, they offered us a great swap deal involving the experienced keeper, Martin Fulop, as well as financial incentives. It would appear we got the best end of the deal. Alnwick would never force his way into Tottenhams reckoning. While over the next couple of seasons would only fall further down the pecking order at Tottenham until his release. While early talk had been how Alnwick would inevitably become Sunderlands number one, given the games in a reasonable team the shot stopper might well have gained England recognition after all.