Chris Mepham has emphasized that it is too soon to predict Sunderland’s final position this season.

While the Black Cats appear set for a play-off spot as the 2024-25 campaign progresses, overtaking Burnley, Sheffield, and Leeds United to secure automatic promotion remains a tough challenge for Régis Le Bris’ side.

Following Sunderland’s match against Cardiff City at the Stadium of Light in March, Bournemouth loanee Mepham urged his teammates and supporters to focus on one game at a time rather than speculating about potential play-off opponents like Coventry and West Brom.

“At this point, it’s too early,” Mepham responded when asked if Sunderland was already thinking about the play-offs. “Take Coventry as an example—five or six games ago, they weren’t in the play-off spots, but now they’ve put together a great run and are firmly in the mix.”

“There are still 30 points up for grabs,” Mepham continued after the Cardiff match. “Some teams currently in the play-off places may not be there at the end. We just have to focus on ourselves, maintain momentum, improve where needed, and challenge the teams ahead of us.”

The Wales international, who moved to Bournemouth from Brentford in a £12 million deal, has already experienced Premier League promotion with the Cherries and understands the high standards required to succeed in the Championship.

“I was lucky to be part of a promotion-winning team at Bournemouth, and I see similarities in character and individual talent here,” Mepham said. “Players like Philip Billing and Dom Solanke were outstanding, and we’ve got similar quality here—Riggy, Jobe, Wilson, Eli, and many others.”

He added, “Managing momentum is key, as well as keeping players engaged even if they aren’t getting regular minutes. They could become crucial at any moment. Hopefully, we’re in a strong position by the end of the season.”

When asked if Sunderland’s squad could handle Premier League football next season if promoted, Mepham was confident: “Absolutely. These players have proven their quality throughout the season, not just in short bursts, but week after week.”

“At this stage, it’s all about consistency,” he concluded. “After winning two games, we need to stay balanced—neither getting carried away nor discouraged. That mentality is vital right now.”