Sunderland's 1999–2000 season started at Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea beat them 4–0.[1] However, in the return match later in the season Sunderland turned the tables on Chelsea, avenging their 4–0 defeat with a 4–1 win at the Stadium of Light.[2] Sunderland also achieved a 2–1 victory over rivals Newcastle United at St. James' Park,[3] a result which helped bring about the resignation of Newcastle's manager, Ruud Gullit.[4] At the end of the season Sunderland finished seventh, with Kevin Phillips winning the European Golden Shoe in his first top-flight season, scoring 30 goals.[5]
^Kilbane was born in Preston, England, but also qualified to represent the Republic of Ireland internationally through his parents and represented them at U-21 level before making his international debut for Republic of Ireland in September 1997.
^Butler was born in Moston, England, but also qualified to represent the Republic of Ireland internationally through his paternal step-grandfather, and would make his international debut for the Republic of Ireland in February 2000.
^Marriott was born in Sutton-in-Ashfield, England, and represented them at U-21 level, but also qualified to represent Wales internationally and made his international debut for Wales in 1996.
^Oster was born in Boston, England, but also qualified to represent Wales internationally and represented them at U-18 and U-21 level before making his international debut for Wales in 1997.
^Ingham was born in Preston, England, but also qualified to represent Northern Ireland internationally and represented them at U-18 and U-21 level before making his international debut for Northern Ireland in June 2005.