Doncaster Rovers 2-0 Sunderland: Black Cats’ struggles continue

However, despite Dick Advocaat naming a strong line-up at the Keepmoat Stadium, some poor defending saw the Black Cats slip to their third pre-season defeat.

At least there were positives for Advocaat though – chiefly debuts for new signings Younes Kaboul and Jeremain Lens, with the latter proving to be the stand-out performer for the visitors.

However they rounded up their tour across the pond with a great victory over MLS side Toronto FC and will be hoping to take that form into their final two pre-season matches against Sky Bet League 1 side Doncaster Rovers and the Bundesliga’s Hannover 96.

The £8million summer signing from Dynamo Kiev starts in an attacking formation with Jermain Defoe, Steven Fletcher and Adam Johnson all starting.

The start of season Legion of Light is now in the post to season card holders.

Ex-Liverpool man Coates was a key figure in Sunderland’s escape from the drop at the end of last season, while Kaboul has plenty of Premier League pedigree after eight years in the top flight with Spurs and Portsmouth.

Defender Cedric Evina put the home side ahead in the 15th minute when he was left unmarked to rifle home from six yards.

Johnson went closer five minutes later, but after breaking successfully into the penalty area, the England worldwide scuffed his effort at goal, enabling the back-tracking Andy Butler to hack the ball clear.

Again, the concession was largely of their own making, with Jack Rodwell this time the player at fault. He thrashed the ball into the back of Harry Middleton and it rebounded into the path of Forrester, who sent a half-volley beyond Pantilimon into the far corner. Subs not used: Pickford, Mannone.