Sunderland host Crystal Palace in the Premier League, as they look for their first three points of the season.
Sunderland’s next chance to pick up a Premier League victory is at home to Crystal Palace, as they look to escape the bottom three.
David Moyes’ rough start on Wearside continued last week with a defeat against Tottenham, but he was celebrating midweek when the Black Cats came from a goal down to beat QPR and advance to the next round of the EFL Cup.
With their attentions back on the Premier League, how will Sunderland line up against Palace as they go in search of their first league victory?
Jordan Pickford will continue in goal after his man of the match performance against Spurs.
Javi Manquillo played at left back last weekend but should return to his favoured right back slot due to Patrick Van Aanholt’s recovery from a virus, which will see him slot back in on the left side of defence.
Despite a couple of horror showings from Papy Djilobodji, the centre back looked better against QPR, and Moyes may put faith in his summer signing and keep him in the starting line up alongside Lamine Kone.
Tottenham’s Vincent Janssen in action with Sunderland’s Papy Djilobodji
Although he was the hero in midweek, Paddy McNair will be lucky to get a start against Crystal Palace.
The trio that started against Spurs should start again at the Stadium of Light, meaning that Lee Cattermole will return in McNair’s place, with his leadership on the pitch vital for the Black Cats. Didier Ndong will continue his solid start in red and white, having been one of few positives at White Hart Lane last week.
Adnan Januzaj is available again following his suspension, but will likely have to make an impact from the bench rather than walking back into the team.
Duncan Watmore would be the most likely candidate to start out side in the Belgian’s place, with his pace meaning he is capable of causing problems for the Palace defence, although he needs to work on his ball retention.
Sunderland’s Duncan Watmore in action with Everton’s Idrissa Gueye
On the left will be Steven Pienaar, who missed a glaring chance to give Sunderland the lead last week, but he is another experienced figure which Moyes’ side are lacking, meaning the South African should continue in midfield.
Up front will be the returning Jermain Defoe, who sat out the cup victory over QPR. The 33-year-old will be looking to end his mini goal drought, having not scored since Sunderland’s 1-1 draw with Southampton.
Sunderland’s Jermain Defoe looks dejected
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