Media mash-up continues as a batch of local reporters preview Sunderland’s latest fixture providing insight, analysis and opinion.
Next up, Nick Barnes, James Hunter and Richard Mennear preview the Lads’ home match against Leicester City.
Nick Barnes (@Tweed_Barnesy) – BBC Radio Newcastle
Sunderland’s resistance for 75 minutes at Anfield was proof to me that in the past few weeks, since the addition of Victor Anichebe to the starting line up in the form he is currently displaying, that Sunderland are now a much better all-round team than a month ago. Add to that the form of Jordan Pickford and the continued threat provided by Jermain Defoe and Sunderland are in much better shape to tackle the next two critical Premier League fixtures at home to Leicester and away at Swansea. Leicester have not recorded an away win this season and with Sunderland’s confidence bolstered by their displays in the last three games this is as good a time as any to face the Premier League champions. Seb Larsson returned to the squad at Anfield and even while he’s unlikely to start his experience could be invaluable late in games, and with luck in a few weeks’ time Jan Kirchhoff will return to the roster. This fortnight is critical as wins in both, or even four points from six could lift Sunderland out of the bottom three heading into the crucial and difficult Christmas schedule.
James Hunter (@JHunterChron) – The Chronicle
Sunderland showed sufficient spirit in defeat at Liverpool to suggest that the confidence they built-up from back-to-back wins over Bournemouth and Hull City will survive intact. But we will only truly find out whether that is the case this weekend when reigning Premier League champions Leicester City arrive at the Stadium of Light. While the Foxes have looked impressive in the Champions League, they have found the going much tougher domestically and are currently only two points above the relegation zone. Sunderland will sense that this is a winnable home game, particularly as Leicester have taken only one point from six games on the road, and they must take advantage if they are to maintain their momentum.
Richard Mennear (@RichMennearJP) – Sunderland Echo
Sunderland host Leicester City this weekend and manager David Moyes will be wary of the threat posed by the Foxes. The Premier League Champions have struggled in the Premier League this season, with Claudio Ranieri's side also having the additional pressure of the Champions League to contend with. But they snatched a last-gasp point at home to Middlesbrough last time out and those are the sorts of goals that can kick-start a campaign. Leicester, 14th in the league, have struggled to recapture last season's stunning form. But in Jamie Vardy, Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani their threat is clear. Sunderland have nothing to fear, though. Their confidence and morale has been boosted by wins over Bournemouth and Hull City, followed by a spirited display against Liverpool. The Black Cats are now entering a crucial run of fixtures, with three out of the next four games at home. Leicester's pride has been dented this season and Sunderland, in need of another three points to maintain momentum, have what it takes to add to their struggles.
The views expressed within this article are the views of the individual contributors and not necessarily those of Sunderland AFC.
