Joyous week for Sunderland's international players

Dan Ballard marked his recent return from injury with a goal for Northern Ireland in the win over Belarus

The three Sunderland players who were called up for senior international duty have all enjoyed a very successful week.

Trai Hume and Dan Ballard were at the heart of the Northern Ireland defence for their 2-0 win at home to Belarus and the 2-2 draw in Luxembourg.

Ballard was also on the scoresheet against Belarus as the Black Cats duo helped their country win promotion to League B of the Nations League after winning Group C3.

Chris Mepham didn't play any minutes but was part of the Wales squad that pulled off a remarkable return to the Nations League's top tier following a 0-0 draw in Turkey and 4-1 win against Iceland in Cardiff.

League leaders Sunderland return to Championship action when they visit in-form Millwall on Saturday afternoon.