Sunderland will be afforded another chance on Saturday to carry on their mini-resurrection and gradually turn it into a major one. After a torrid opening spell, the last month has seen David Moyes along with Sunderland enjoying some good fortune and after a series of positive results, almost deflated by a loss against Liverpool, they are off the foot of the table and with a couple of weeks of luck and hard work, they can come out of the relegation zone and start believing that they can survive after all. Wins against Bournemouth, Hull City and Leicester City sees them a single point off West Ham who are just about hovering above the relegation zone.
With Manchester United and Chelsea in the next couple of weeks, Moyes will be desperate to notch all 3 points against Swansea City. The Swans have been listless and are devoid of any apparent quality or aim. Bob Bradley’s appointment is already being seen as a blunder and they probably need a miracle to have any chance of surviving this season.
But their injury nightmare hasn’t ceased as one of their most important performers this season has been ruled out for the season. With Watmore out, they will now have to look for replacements once the January window opens.
PREDICTED SUNDERLAND XI VS SWANSEA CITY (4-1-4-1)
DEFENCE
Jordan Pickford is likely to continue in goal after impressing again last weekend. His form has been a big plus and with more balance in the team, his crucial saves can now start yielding points now. Jones will be at right-back and is doing good work and in the process keeping Javier Manquillo out of the team.
The centre-back pairing is likely to be Lamine Kone and Papy Djilobodji. They have been good this season but have the potential to be even more solid and assertive. The uber-adventurous Patrick Van Aanholt will be at left-back and will look to add to his goal/assist tally.
MIDFIELD
Jan Kirchhoff is expected to start after coming off the bench last weekend. He has quality and if he can remain fit and find his form will be a real asset for the Black Cats. Didier N’dong and Steven Pienaar are likely to continue in the advanced midfield roles. Their movement and runs off the ball will be vital for how the plan works out.
ATTACK
Victor Anichebe is most likely to start on the left flank and his return from injury has been a real bonus for David Moyes. With Watmore ruled out for the season, Wahbi Khazri might be in line for a start on the right-flank. Jermain Defoe will once again lead the line and will be their most likely source of goals.
