Sunderland are stuck in a horrible rot at the moment, one that seemingly has no end.

Despite news that Stewart Donald is set to finally relinquish his control of the Black Cats, there has been no rejuvenation or upturn in positivity.

In fact, there has been quite the opposite. The Mackems have sacked Phil Parkinson and now without a win in four League One outings, are searching for new owners, a new manager and a director of football.

If anything summed up Sunderland in the last four or five years it would be this. Yet again, there is a lack of clarity at the Stadium of Light and it must be impossible for the players to focus on their jobs.

However, one player who was able to focus on what mattered against Burton was Max Power. The midfielder popped up with a vital late goal in their 1-1 draw which somewhat saved Andrew Taylor’s blushes.

Despite his strike, there was someone who stood out further – Luke O’Nien.

The right-wing back has been impressive this term and is showing great commitment to the club with his performances. On Tuesday, he was brilliant again, providing a lesson to the rest of the team.

He didn’t score or assist a goal but he was dedicated and robust, winning 90% of his duels against the Brewers. Whether it was on the ground where he won four duels or in the air where he won five, O’Nien was imperious and deserves the plaudits from what was otherwise a damp occasion.

Furthermore, the 26-year-old was fouled on four occasions, using his body to good effect to win dead-ball situations for his team.

It was disappointing, therefore, to see him go off with an arm injury, something that is suspected to be a dislocated shoulder.

If that is the case, then it could be a few weeks before we see O’Nien in action for the Black Cats again. After this performance, that would be desperately cruel on the club.

Meanwhile, Sunderland MUST hand more minutes to one young striker...