Sunderland travel to Villa Park today, aiming to record a third consecutive Premier League victory.
The Black Cats have enjoyed an exceptional first season back in the top flight. They recently dispatched Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur to sit comfortably in mid-table. Régis Le Bris has created a mentally unburdened squad that excels in pressure situations.
Sunderland have already completed doubles over arch-rivals Newcastle and won at Leeds recently. They now look to claim another high-profile scalp in the West Midlands. Sunderland have been surprisingly resilient on the road compared to their home performances.
They have conceded only ten goals in 16 away matches so far this season. Only a handful of teams have found the net fewer times than the Wearsiders. However, their tactical discipline allows them to frustrate opponents and strike on the counter. Le Bris will demand the same focus that saw them shut out Spurs last time.
Sunderland team news
Dan Ballard provides a major boost for the visitors as he returns to full fitness. The Northern Ireland international missed the last two games with a hamstring issue. Le Bris confirmed that Ballard has trained normally all week and is ready to start. His presence at the heart of the defence alongside Luke O’Nien is vital. They must contain a Villa attack that scored four times in Europe on Thursday.
However, the visitors will still be without three creative players for the trip to Birmingham. Nilson Angulo, Bertrand Traoré, and Jocelin Ta Bi are still sidelined with various issues. Le Bris indicated they are “really close” to returning and could feature next week.
Consequently, Chris Rigg will carry extra responsibility in the forward areas. They will look to provide service for the physical Brian Brobbey up front. Granit Xhaka and Sadiki are expected to anchor the midfield for the Black Cats. Their experience will be essential in nullifying the threat posed by Morgan Rogers.
Sunderland remain winless in their last five away visits to English opposition in Europe. However, their recent domestic away record suggests they are a completely different proposition. Roefs will continue in goal as he seeks to frustrate the Villa faithful. A victory today would take Sunderland to within touching distance of the European places.
Sunderland predicted lineup
Sunderland Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Roefs; Reinildo, Alderete, O’Nien, Mukiele; Xhaka, Sadiki; Le Fee, Diarra, Rigg; Brobbey
When will the match kick off?
The Premier League clash begins at 14:00 BST on Sunday.
How to watch Aston Villa vs Sunderland?
The match is televised live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League. Coverage begins at 13:00 BST.
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