Sunderland is gearing up for their upcoming home match against Norwich City, following their recent 4-0 loss to Middlesbrough. Despite their strong start to the season, the Black Cats have suffered three consecutive defeats and currently sit in 10th place in the Championship.
Tony Mowbray’s team is in desperate need of a win to turn their fortunes around, as Norwich City is also struggling, having not won any of their last four matches. This suggests that the game at Wearside could be an open and exciting one, especially since Norwich has conceded the most goals in the second tier (24), while only Leicester and Ipswich Town have scored more (24).
Mowbray is likely to make a few changes to the lineup after their midweek loss. Anthony Patterson, despite Sunderland’s defeat to Leicester, is expected to retain his position in goal after an outstanding performance that earned him Sky Sports’ Man of the Match.
The defense is likely to remain unchanged, with Niall Huggins earning his place since coming in. Dan Neil and Pierre Ekwah are expected to continue in midfield. Jobe Bellingham, who hasn’t been in top form recently, might be rested in favor of Alex Pritchard, reuniting with his former club.
Jack Clarke is set to maintain his spot in the lineup, aiming to build on his eight goals. Patrick Roberts will also be on the right after a solid performance on Tuesday.
Mason Burstow, who has yet to score a goal, may be replaced, with Nazariy Rusyn tipped to step in. It appears that Mowbray isn’t a fan of Hemir. Eliezer Mayenda could make his debut on the substitutes’ bench and earn a spot in the game.
Our predicted XI: Patterson; Hume, Ballard, O’Nien, Huggins; Ekwah, Neil, Pritchard; Roberts, Clarke, Rusyn