Sunderland host Fulham at the Stadium of Light on Sunday while they aim to arrest a two-game losing slide and reclaim their place in the top ten.
The Black Cats have moved into 11th place following a frustrating week that saw their season-long unbeaten home record ended by Liverpool. Manager Régis Le Bris oversaw a narrow 1–0 defeat in that outing and is now desperate to avoid losing three consecutive matches for the first time this season. Notably, Sunderland have conceded the joint-4th fewest goals in the division, boasting a league-low shot conversion rate against them of just 8%.
Sunderland Team News
Régis Le Bris manages a squad bolstered by a vital midfield return but weakened on the flanks. Notably, Granit Xhaka is available again after recovering from an ankle injury. Consequently, the Swiss midfielder—who leads the league in assists from line-breaking passes (4) and goals created through line-breaks (8)—could return to the heart of the team. However, Reinildo has been ruled out for a month with a knee injury, while Bertrand Traoré remains sidelined for at least another week.
Rufs will start in goal behind a defensive line featuring Nordi Mukiele and Dan Ballard. In midfield, Enzo Le Fée—who has four assists this term—will look to provide the creative spark alongside Diarra. Brian Brobbey is expected to lead the line as he seeks his sixth goal of the season, having already netted two match-winning efforts. Notably, Sunderland have only failed to score in two of their 13 home league games this season.
Sunderland Predicted Lineup
Sunderland predicted XI: Rufs; Mukiele, Ballard, Geertruida, Cirkin; Diarra, Sadiki; Hume, Le Fée, Angulo; Brobbey
When will the match kick off?
The Premier League fixture takes place at the Stadium of Light on Sunday, 22 February 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 14:00 GMT.
How to watch Sunderland vs Fulham?
In the UK, the match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Premier League. Fans can also follow live updates via the club’s official website.
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