Sunderland will be hoping to find some sunshine in their otherwise nightmarish start to the Premier League, considering that it can’t get any worse for the Black Cats. They are at rock bottom of the table and even a win will keep it that way. But, win could turn around their fortunes and relieve a bit of pressure of Moyes’ shoulders ahead of the international break.
They will be no doubt be optimistic while facing Bournemouth, who have a poor record against the Black Cats as they have won just 1 of their eight games in all competitions. They have drawn 3 and lost 4 in the other 7 games.
However, Bournemouth have shown some really promising performances this season and have made the fact quite clear that it is not an easy place to go and win. Bournemouth have gathered 10 points from 5 games at home.
Team news
Bournemouth- Max Gradel and Tyrone Mings remain long-term absentees for the Cherries. Charlie Daniels could return to his left back position and Bournemouth will really pray for Harry Arter to return in this game. He is going a late match fitness test. Bournemouth, unlike Sunderland, have pretty much most of their first team players ready for the game.
Sunderland- Sunderland are not only the worst team in the Premier League but are also the most injury hit team in the league this season. After starting their campaign without nine first team players, Sunderland have most of them back now. Among the first team players, goalkeeper Vito Mannone and Jan Kirchhoff are out.
Predicted lineups
Bournemouth’s probable XI (4-2-3-1 formation): Boruc; Smith, Francis, Cook, Daniels; Surman, Arter; King, Wilshere, Ibe; Wilson
Sunderland’s probable XI (4-5-1 formation): Pickford; Jones, Koné, O’Shea, van Aanholt; Khazri, N’dong, Rodwell, Pienaar, Watmore; Defoe
Key Players
Bournemouth- If there is one player in Bournemouth who has brilliant footballing technique, it is Jack Wilshere. After multiple injuries pausing the England international’s career, he has finally found some continuous game time in Bournemouth. With the boss putting his trust in the 24-year old in back to back matches, he is expected to repay the faith against what is a weak Sunderland defence.
Sunderland- It can only be Jermain Defoe. Even in the one sided game against Arsenal where Sunderland hardly made any threat on the attacking front, Defoe stood out. With Januzaj returning, he will get some aid up front.
Odds
Bournemouth- 4/6
Draw- 31/ 10
Sunderland- 9/2
