Sunderland will reunite with Nathan Broadhead as they host Ipswich Town in their first match of the season.
The Championship have confirmed the 2023-24 schedule, with the Black Cats facing their former striker for the first time since his departure on August 6.
Broadhead quickly became a fan favourite in Sunderland after joining on loan from Everton in 2021. The forward netted ten goals in 22 matches during their final season in League One.
Reports claimed Sunderland tried to bring Broadhead back to the club, however he went on to join Wigan Athletic on loan before securing a £1.5 million move to Ipswich in January.
The 25-year-old claimed 13 goal contributions as the Tractor Boys were promoted to the Championship.
Tony Mowbray’s side will be hoping they won’t also be facing Ellis Simms on the opening day, with Sky Sports’ Alan Myers claiming Town are another club targeting a permanent deal for the Everton attacker this summer.
Sunderland will be eager to prevent Broadhead from scoring when they meet in August, though the hosts certainly have the advantage after claiming four wins from their last six clashes.
What are Sunderland’s key dates in the Championship this season?
After Sunderland kick off their season on home turf, their first away trip will be to Preston North End – a few months after they thrashed them 3-0 at Deepdale.
The highly anticipated Boxing Day clash will see the Black Cats take a trip to Yorkshire as they face Hull City, before taking on the Lilywhites again on New Year’s Day.
The ‘derby’ dates to book into your calendar come at Middlesbrough on October 7, before the reverse fixture takes place on February 3.
Sunderland will end their campaign with a home tie against Sheffield Wednesday on May 4.
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