WADDLE ON PL SURVIVAL

Former player Chris Waddle has given his thoughts on whether we'll still be in the Premier League or not next year, speaking with Esports Bets. With one win and one loss so far, Waddle thinks we'll need some luck as does anyone in football...

UPS AND DOWNS

“Time will tell whether Sunderland will stay up this season. They beat West Ham, but let’s be honest, West Ham are all over the place at the moment. It was a great win and confidence boost for them, but Burnley brought them back down to earth."

GET LUCKY

“I always say that, for any of the three promoted teams, finishing 15th or 16th is a good base and can be built on next season – but survival is crucial. If you’re Régis Le Bris, you’re hoping that Sunderland’s new signings gel together and you get the rub of the green – you need a bit of luck on your side."

LONG SEASON

“Sunderland will have no real ambition to qualify for Europe or finish in the top half this season, it’s all about survival. It’s going to be a long season for them, but they’ve brought in players that they believe are Premier-League-calibre. We’ll see if they’re proven right in good time."

RELEGATION RIVALS

“While Wolves, Brentford and West Ham might get dragged into a relegation battle, they have the experience of the league on their side. Their advantage over Sunderland and the other promoted sides is that a good portion of their squads are seasoned Premier League players, which will prove valuable when they need to grind out a result.”