AliousLuke O’Nien is the last remaining player from the Sunderland team that defeated Sheffield United in the Carabao Cup five years ago. Since then, the Blades have triumphed over Sunderland twice during the 2022-23 Championship season. As the Black Cats prepare for a top-of-the-table clash at Bramall Lane, they’ll be hoping to recapture the magic of that 2018 Cup victory.
Much has changed for Sunderland since that 1-0 win. The squad has undergone a complete overhaul, with only O’Nien enduring as a key figure. Now the club captain, O’Nien has become a cornerstone of Sunderland’s success, amassing over 250 appearances since joining in 2018. Here’s a look at the other players from that 2018 side and where they are now:
**Lee Burge – Northampton Town**
Initially signed as a backup goalkeeper, Burge had sporadic appearances in Sunderland’s cup fixtures before securing a starting role the following season. After leaving in 2022, he joined Northampton Town, where he remains their first-choice keeper.
**Conor McLaughlin – Retired**
The right-back struggled for game time at Sunderland, playing just 40 league games over two seasons. After returning to Fleetwood Town, injuries forced him to retire in 2022. Now 33, McLaughlin is pursuing coaching badges in Northern Ireland.
**Tom Flanagan – Colchester United**
Flanagan made over 100 appearances for Sunderland before moving to Shrewsbury Town in 2022. Released this summer, he has since joined Colchester United in League Two.
**Joel Lynch – Precision FC**
After a brief stint at Sunderland, Lynch moved to Crawley Town and later joined UAE side Precision FC, where he plays alongside former EFL players. He helped the team achieve promotion and is currently competing in the second tier.
**Laurens De Bock – Free Agent**
De Bock’s loan spell at Sunderland from Leeds was short-lived, with just 10 appearances. The Belgian has since played for various clubs, most recently Greek side Atromitos, but is currently unattached.
**Max Power – Aarhus GF**
Power, the scorer of Sunderland’s winning goal against Sheffield United, left the club in 2021. After spells in Saudi Arabia and Wigan Athletic, he joined Danish side Aarhus GF this summer.
**Dylan McGeouch – Carlisle United**
McGeouch struggled to make an impact during his time at Sunderland and left in 2020. Now 31, he has faced back-to-back relegations from League One, most recently with Carlisle United.
**Chris Maguire – Eastleigh**
Maguire played a key role during his Sunderland tenure, but after leaving in 2021, his career has been tumultuous. He joined Eastleigh in 2023 following a ban for betting violations.
**Charlie Wyke – Carlisle United**
Wyke enjoyed a prolific third season at Sunderland, scoring 31 goals, but left in 2021. After recovering from a heart attack, he joined Carlisle United this summer but is sidelined with a serious knee injury.
The transformation of the squad underscores Sunderland’s journey from League One struggles to a strong Championship contender. As they prepare for tonight’s high-stakes clash, fans will hope the current lineup can replicate the fighting spirit of their predecessors and push towards their Premier League aspirations.
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