Sunderland were given another rude reality check after Swansea City defeated them 3-0 at the Liberty Stadium. The Black Cats had just started gathering some momentum after a horrendous opening spell where they went 10 matches without winning and only 2 of them were draws. Wins against Bournemouth, Hull City and Leicester City raised hopes of a resurgence but it seems to be back to square one for David Moyes and his boys after the Swansea debacle. They have Chelsea up next and the League leaders are currently on a 9-match winning streak.
The two teams are on the absolutely opposite ends of the spectrum and it is understandable that anything other than a Sunderland loss will be counted as the biggest upset of the season, especially given the situation both the teams are in. Sunderland have been plagued by injuries and it has been a recurring theme. Moyes hasn’t been able to get his best eleven on the pitch at the same time and this has obviously hurt their prospects badly.
Jermain Defoe has been their best performer, as has become the norm and his 8 goals have been crucial in Sunderland not losing any more ground than they already have. It is expected to be Chelsea’s attacking prowess against Sunderland’s questionable defence but Sunderland really do have nothing to lose. Which will surely help them.
PREDICTED SUNDERLAND XI VS CHELSEA (4-3-2-1)
DEFENCE
One of the surprise revelations of the season, Jordan Pickford, has been immense in goal for the Blck Cats. He has broken into the English squad and has proved his mettle between the sticks and is currently the No.1. Billy Jones will be at right-back and is currently keeping Manquillo out of the team. Papy Djilobodji and Lamine Kone are the current central defensive pair and Djilobodji will want to make a statement of sorts against his former employers who did not give him an opportunity to showcase his abilities. Van Aanholt will be another player who will be out to make a statement.
MIDFIELD
Jan Kirchhoff is likely to start with Ndong missing out. He will be a part of the midfield 3 which will probably see Jason Denayer sit at the base of the trio. The Manchester City loanee will be looking to grow further accustomed to his new position. Seb Larsson is likely to be the other player.
ATTACK
With Watmore injured we might see Anichebe and Steven Pienaar line up behind the main striker, who is going to be Jermain Defoe.
