Opta predicts Sunderland to finish 12th after dramatic Tyne-Wear derby win | OneFootball

Opta have projected Sunderland's final Premier League finish after their last-gasp Tyne-Wear derby win at St James Park.

According to Sunderland Echo, Opta's model has Regis Le Bris' side ending the season in 12th on 51.15 points, with Arsenal top on 84.77 and Manchester City second on 74.45.

Sunderland had made a poor start, Anthony Gordon pouncing on a Luke O'Nien header to put Newcastle ahead inside the opening 10 minutes.

Chemsdine Talbi levelled from close range just before the hour as the visitors grew in belief.

In the final minute Brian Brobbey beat Aaron Ramsdale at the second attempt to complete the comeback, sealing a league double and stretching the unbeaten league derby run to 11. The result left Sunderland 11th, three points off the European places.

Le Bris called it a big achievement to win two derbies in the same year and said the match was as tough as expected, with Newcastle strong in the first half and the crowd intense. After an error led to the opener, he felt staying 1-0 allowed him to realign the team at half-time and show their plan after the break. He added that Newcastle operate at a high level and that Sunderland want to keep improving.

Opta also project Manchester United third on 66.06 points and Aston Villa fourth on 65.04, with Newcastle 10th on 52.03 and Fulham 11th on 51.92.

Source: Sunderland Echo