Sunderland must beat Fulham on Saturday if their winless run at the Stadium of Light is not to extend beyond a year.
It was on December 17 last season that home fans celebrated as David Moyes’ side beat Watford 1-0 in the Premier League.
One relegation, another experienced manager in Simon Grayson, 364 days and a new English record of 21 matches later and supporters are still waiting for that winning feeling.
And yet, the club are still declaring attendances of around 28,000 a week this season — third-highest average in the Championship.