5 Inspired Sunderland Free Transfers (And 5 Total Disasters)

4. Cristian Riveros

Cristian Riveros clearly couldn't have been the worst technical footballer Sunderland have signed on a free transfer, but in terms of impact, Riveros offered very, very little despite the expectations placed upon his shoulders. He was a Paraguayan international bound for the 2010 World Cup when he signed, and Wearside adopted the South Americans as their second team. But upon signing for Sunderland, he offered none of the excitement that he should've brought. While he was a defensive minded midfielder, he was supposed to have a great shot, but barely used it. He was sent out to Turkey on loan for a season before moving away permanently. He was billed as a gem, but was ultimately a flop.