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🚨PREMIER LEAGUE DRAMA— Predicted Sunderland XI REVEALED With SHOCK Twist! Major Update on Star Striker Sends Fans Into MELTDOWN Ahead of Huge Clash That Could Change Everything!
Two sides in search of momentum collide at the City Ground this weekend as Sunderland make the trip for a Premier League showdown. Both clubs are desperate to rediscover winning form, setting the stage for a fiery clash.
For Ange Postecoglou, the wait for a first victory since taking charge goes on. His men have shown glimpses of quality, holding their own with impressive draws against Burnley in the league and Real Betis in Europe, but the breakthrough win still eludes them.
Régis Le Bris, on the other hand, has overseen a promising start to Sunderland’s return to the top flight. The Black Cats battled bravely to earn a 1-1 draw against Aston Villa in their last outing, even after playing with ten men for more than an hour. That resilience has given fans reason for optimism ahead of the trip.
Team News — Hosts
Injury issues continue to pile up. Ola Aina remains sidelined long-term after hamstring surgery, and doubts surround Nikola Milenkovic and Douglas Luiz following setbacks against Betis. While Nicolas Dominguez is edging closer to a full return after knee problems, Murillo’s thigh issue means he remains short of match fitness. Despite the concerns, Postecoglou insisted his squad still has firepower, highlighting Igor Jesus’ rapid adaptation after his move abroad.
Predicted XI — Hosts
Sels; Williams, Milenkovic, Morato, Zinchenko; Sangare, Anderson; Bakwa, Gibbs-White, Ndoye; Jesus.
Subs: Victor, Savona, Cunha, Yates, McAtee, Hutchinson, Wood, Hudson-Odoi, Kalimuendo.
Igor Jesus’ form should keep him in the lineup, though big-money stars Chris Wood and Callum Hudson-Odoi could again be left on the bench.
Team News — Sunderland
Le Bris’ preparations were dealt a blow with confirmation that midfield dynamo Habib Diarra faces months out following groin surgery. Defender Reinildo is suspended after his red card against Villa, further stretching resources.
There is some good news, however, as Luke O’Nien edges closer to making his first appearance of the season following a shoulder injury in the play-off final. Elsewhere, Aji Alese, Dennis Cirkin, Romaine Mundle, and Leo Hjelde remain unavailable.
Predicted XI — Sunderland
Roefs; Hume, Mukiele, Alderete, Masuaku; Xhaka, Sadiki; Talbi, Le Fée, Adingra; Isidor.
Subs: Patterson, O’Nien, Ballard, Geertruida, Neil, Rigg, Mayenda, Brobbey, Traoré.
Masuaku is tipped to slot in at left-back to cover Reinildo’s absence, while tactical tweaks could be made in midfield to compensate for the loss of Diarra. Rising star Rigg may drop to the bench as Le Bris prioritises balance, with Brian Brobbey and Lutsharel Geertruida still waiting for their first starts.
With both managers forced into big selection calls, Saturday’s clash looks set to be tense, unpredictable, and potentially season-defining.
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