Chris Mepham

Chris Mepham, the stalwart at the heart of Sunderland's defence, is a model of reliability in the Championship. His playing style is built around an impressive capacity for ball retention, a trait that ensures his team can build from the back with confidence. Mepham excels in reading the game, with his ability to recover possession quickly serving as a cornerstone of his defensive prowess. While his penalty area defending is commendable, his 1v1 defending can sometimes be tested against quicker opponents. Yet, it's his prowess in progressive carrying that often stands out, as he frequently steps forward to transition play smoothly from defence to attack, demonstrating his comfort with the ball at his feet. While he's not renowned for attacking contributions, his defensive stats suggest a player who's integral in maintaining structure and stability at the back. This scout report highlights a defender who combines experience with a tactical understanding that bolsters Sunderland's defensive unit.