A convincing argument could be made to have Stephane Sessegnon in the attacking midfielder slot, but while the skilful Benin international was unplayable on his day, he was nowhere near as consistent as Steed Malbranque. The ex-Fulham and Tottenham man was already an established Premier League star when he came to the Stadium of Lights, and quickly became a fan favourite thanks to his exciting dribbling ability, vision, and selflessness. Best Moment: Malbranque's first goal for Sunderland was an absolute pearler, a strike from outside the box against Hull which featured both power and placement in abundance. Unfortunately it would be his only league strike for the Black Cats, but fans wouldn't trade in the Frenchman's glut of assists, key runs, and unstoppable on-ball skills for a few more goals.
