There's no denying Sunderland's defence has been a shambles for the vast majority of this season. If it's not a calamitous centre back error, it's a full back roaming so far out of position that you wonder why they bother calling themselves a 'defender'. The main perpetrator - like it or not - has been Patrick Van Aanholt. He enjoyed a fruitful 2014/15, but this season has largely been a nightmare for the ex-Chelsea full back. Van Aanholt's performance against Norwich at the beginning of the season genuinely may go down as the worst I can ever remember from a player in red and white. I don't say that lightly. Yes, he's improved, but a couple of goals have only partially masked the fact that the majority of Sunderland's conceded goals stem from Van Aanholt's incompetence.
What Culture contributor. NCTJ accredited Sports Journalist. Regret-filled Sunderland AFC season ticket holder. Optimism-filled NFL fan. Lover of all things Game Of Thrones, Breaking Bad, Walking Dead & more.
