Sunderland's quest to secure promotion back to the Premier League for the first time since the 2016/17 season will go on after Regis Le Bris and his side secured a top-four finish at the conclusion of the regular campaign.
Heading into April, the Vertu-backed side was closing in on securing a place inside the top six - with an outside chance of also still overhauling the three teams ahead to take automatic promotion.
A freekick from Trai Hume earned a 1-0 win on the road at West Bromwich Albion to kick off the month, and the a play-off spot was then confirmed following a goalless draw on the road against Norwich City.
That would prove to be the final point secured by the Black Cats as focus turned towards the play-offs through the final five games, with Swansea City, Blackburn and QPR winning by a single goal at the Stadium of Light, and losses on the road to both Bristol City and Oxford United.
Despite that challenging run of form to complete the season, Sunderland ended the campaign in fourth spot having held a top four position throughout, marking the second time in three seasons that a play-off spot was secured.
The battle for promotion will see Sunderland go head-to-head in a two-legged semi-final against Coventry City for the right to head for Wembley Stadium for a final against either Bristol City or Sheffield United.
April/May Results:
| West Bromwich Albion 0-1 Sunderland |
| Norwich City 0-0 Sunderland |
| Sunderland 0-1 Swansea City |
| Bristol City 2-1 Sunderland |
| Sunderland 0-1 Blackburn Rovers |
| Oxford United 2-0 Sunderland |
| Sunderland 0-1 Queens Park Rangers |
- Sponsorships