After a disappointing loss to Huddersfield town on Wednesday night the Lads are set to hit the road against Millwall on Saturday and put an end to this poor run of form.
LAST TIME OUT
A lot of questions have been asked about plan B, with the question being asked by a lot of fans, is Mowbray still the right man for us? Eight losses in 18 so far this season, whereas last season we only suffered 13 defeats through the whole season. Losing 2-1 to a side sitting outside the relegation zone whilst pushing for promotion simply isn't good enough. It took just 28 minutes for Huddersfield to score, with Helik finding the net. The Black Cats captain Luke O’Nien equalised late just before half time, creating a sense of relief going into the second half.
The second half rolled around and it took Darren Moore's side just 22 minutes to find the goal that secured them the game, with it being quite a silly mistake from our defence and Burgzorg finding the space to find the back of the net. Another disappointing result from the Lads but will they pick up the three points they need on the road this weekend?
INJURY UPDATE
Injuries seem to be a nightmare for Sunderland the last two seasons. Going into Millwall, there seem to be no fresh updates since Wednesday night. Aji Alese, who picked up a thigh injury back in April against Stoke City, is looking to be back in training by the end of the week but will need gametime with the u21s. Costa Rican Jewison Bennette was recently under doctor's order to stay away from the ground and wasn’t involved with Plymouth nor Huddersfield. Timothee Pembele suffered a setback in October after returning from a long-term injury; earlier this month Mowbray said, “three or four weeks from returning to full training”. Jay Matete picked up a knee cartilage injury in pre-season and is expected to be back in training in early December. Corry Evans, who suffered a ruptured ligament in January, has recently stepped up with his recovery and is looking to be back in full training by Christmas time.
ONES TO WATCH
Head Coach Joe Edwards’ side currently sit 19th in the Championship with 20 points from 18 games this season having been beaten in their last two. Only having won five out of their 18 Championship games, Millwall look to pick up three points at home on Saturday.
The Lions have former Black Cats George Honeyman and Duncan Watmore in their ranks, who joined the London club in 2022 and 2023 respectively.
Dutchman Zian Flemming is their top scorer this season with four goals. The enigmatic attacking midfielder was their top scorer last year too and is probably their most talented player – he was nearly sold to Burnley in the summer for big money.
Jake Cooper at centre half is 6’6 and always a threat from set pieces. In fact, he scored against us last season. Of course, we’ll have to watch out for him because we can’t defend corners...
LAST TIME THERE
Last time at the Den the result ended in a 1-1 draw and Dennis Cirkin suffered concussion after scoring the equaliser. It was a brave header, and resulted in a punch to the head from the opposition goalkeeper. As previously mentioned, their massive centre back had opened the scoring from a set piece on the hour mark.
PREDICTION
I am predicting a 1-0 win for the Black Cats and am very confident to leave with the three points on Saturday and get back to winning ways.
