Sunderland have recently announced that Alim Ozturk is one of five players that will leave the club when their contract expire at the end of June. 

The Turkish defender has made 45 appearances for the Black Cats since arriving at the Stadium of Light in the summer of 2018, but struggled for consistent game time under the management of Phil Parkinson in this year's campaign.

Ozturk made 25 appearances for Sunderland in all competitions this term, as they missed out on a top-six finish in League One in frustrating circumstances.

The majority of League One clubs agreed to curtail this year's campaign early on a PPG (points per game) basis, which meant that Sunderland finished eighth in the third tier standings.

It's set to be an interesting summer ahead for Sunderland, and it seems likely that there will be a real clear out in Parkinson's squad as they prepare for another season in League One.

Ozturk took to Instagram following the announcement of his departure, and labelled it as an honour and pleasure to play for the club, which will be pleasing to hear for the club's supporters.

/CBis15xls6g/

The recent decision from clubs means that the Black Cats are condemned to yet another season in the third tier of English football.

Can you score full marks in this higher or lower Sunderland quiz? 

The Verdict: 

I think they've made a mistake here.

Ozturk might not have been a regular in the Sunderland squad this season, but he's shown that he's a more than good enough player to call upon when needed.

Sunderland do need to clear out the 'deadwood' in the summer transfer window though, as they're a 'sleeping giant' at the moment.

The club's supporters will be expectant in achieving promotion into the Championship next season, so it's vital that they start next year's campaign strongly.