Sunderland-Manchester United: A Preview

Sunderland v Man Utd

Saturday, 11 April, 2009

Stadium of Light

Kickoff: 15:00

Sunderland

Sunderland lost 2-0 to West Ham in their last league match, the Black Cats' third straight loss and sixth straight match without a win.

In their last five, Sunderland have drawn one and lost four, picking up only one point from the 15 on offer. Sunderland now sit 17th in the league, just outside of relegation, one point behind 16th Portsmouth and three points clear of 18th placed Newcastle.

Sunderland will be without Tainio, Anderson, and Connolly for the match, whilst George McCartney may be fit.

Manchester United

Manchester United beat Aston Villa 3-2 in their last league outing, the Red Devils' first win in three league matches.

In their last five, Man Utd have won three and lost two, picking up nine points from the 15 on offer. Man United are currently first in the league, one point clear of second placed Liverpool with a game still in hand.

Manchester United will welcome back Wayne Rooney, Paul Scholes, and Nemanja Vidic from suspension. But the Red Devils will be without Johnny Evans, Dimitar Berbatov, Wes Brown, Anderson, and Owen Hargreaves, with Rio Ferdinand and Rafael still doubtful.

Prediction

Manchester United defeated Sunderland 1-0 earlier this season at Old Trafford, whilst last season's Sunderland vs. Manchester United fixture saw the Red Devils run out 4-0 victors.

After their 2-2 midweek draw with Porto in the Champions League, it would appear that Man Utd have not completely recovered from their recent drop in form, with their "fragile defence" exposed yet again.

Luckily for the Red Devils, Sunderland are currently experiencing their worst form of the season, picking up only two points from their last six matches.

With the return of Wayne Rooney to the side and with Ronaldo finding his form once again, Man Utd still possess a highly talented and dangerous attack. As such, in spite of their unconvincing performances of late—and further possible gaps in their back line—Manchester United look strong favourites to post victory over a very lacklustre Sunderland side.

For the complete preview with the best odds and betting guide, go to the Sunderland vs Manchester United  Preview Page

Then Read More Weekend Premier League Football Previews:

Chelsea vs Bolton
Liverpool vs Blackburn
Wigan vs Arsenal
Aston Villa vs Everton