After Sunderland's remarkable 99/00 campaign, very few thought they'd be able to match it one season later, but the signing of Don Hutchison ensured that the team's remarkable momentum would carry on as the side finished 7th again. Hutchison was exactly the sort of quality that Sunderland needed in the middle of the park. He bagged eight goals from midfield while Niall Quinn and Kevin Phillips continued to flood Premier League nets, but he didn't go unnoticed, and West Ham picked him up after just one season for £5 million. Of course, it was a good price, and Hutchison himself wanted to leave, though the season after, Sunderland began their rapid decline, finishing 17th and ended up relegated a year later.
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.
