O’Neill, who will officially take over as Steve Bruce’s successor tomorrow, watched on from the directors’ box as Kieran Richardson put the Black Cats ahead early in the second half.

But after Sebastian Larsson saw his penalty saved by Wolves keeper Wayne Hennessey, Fletcher struck twice in the space of eight minutes to secure the points for the hosts.

Ahmed Elmohamady replaced Ji before Sunderland had the chance to double their lead when Craddock was adjudged to have brought down Larsson inside the box.

Replays suggested the contact – if any – may have been outside. But Hennessey kept Wolves’ hopes alive by saving Larsson’s low spot-kick away to his left.

It was a crucial save as within 30 seconds Steven Fletcher had levelled for Wolves. Jarvis sent over a curling centre and Fletcher’s header beat the dive of Westwood.

Johnson came on for Craddock in a straight swap at the back with 12 minutes left.

Fletcher put Wolves ahead after 81 minutes when a cross from Hammill was manoeuvred by O’Hara to the Scot whose low shot flew past Westwood.

Bendtner was booked for a trip on Edwards as Sunderland were unable to rescue the game.