There is hardly any hope left for Sunderland in the Premier League this season and it wouldn’t come as a huge disappointment for the Black Cats fans either, as their team has almost never managed to come out of the relegation zone the whole season.
First, the long list of injuries and then the huge financial crisis; Sunderland never looked in the competition this campaign and David Moyes really had no reinforcements, except for Jermain Defoe, to get them out of the muddle. And given the historic stature they enjoy, it is only fair that they come back strongly and fully prepared, later.
However, mathematically it is still possible that Sunderland escapes the relegation zone and to be honest, given the fixtures that Middlesbrough, Hull City and Swansea City have ahead of them, Moyes might just pull out a magical escape if Sunderland win all of their remaining games. And their next opponent would be a good one to start with.
Sunderland visit Riverside next to face a struggling Middlesbrough side, who are yet to win in their last three Premier League fixtures against them. Hence, a psychological advantage is already favouring Moyes’ men going into the game.
Predicted Sunderland XI vs Middlesbrough
Defence
Jordan Pickford will continue to take his place under the bar. The 23-year-old English international sure didn’t hope for such a breakthrough season, but it just might have made the difference for him. The young shot-stopper has attracted immense traction from the bigger clubs this season and if Sunderland goes down this season, there is a huge chance of him being picked up by an elite side.
The back line is more or less likely to remain same that pulled off a last-minute draw against West Ham United last game. The defensive flanks are expected to be taken by the Spaniard Javier Manquillo and Billy Jones. Jones had to be taken off in the ending stages of the game after a concussion but the experienced full-back should be fit for the game.
The centre-half pairing should be Lamine Kone and John O’Shea. The duo has the needed experience to cope with the pressure that was clearly missing in Jason Denayer last game.
Midfield
Darron Gibson will keep his position as the single pivot with Didier Ndong and Lee Cattermole taking advanced positions in the midfield. Sebastian Larsson will continue his suspension.
Attack
Fabio Borini should take his position on the left wing replacing Victor Anichebe. The Italian snatched the all-important equaliser in the 90th minutes last game and his vibrancy might be difficult to handle for Boro. Wahbi Khazri will take the other flank.
The attack will be spearheaded by the enigmatic Jermain Defoe.
