Sunderland face key Chelsea test after poor run
Sunderland's one win in nine has stirred fears of a return to old Premier League struggles. Chelsea offer a chance to halt the slide before the international break and restore Régis Le Bris' side's resolve.
A fan view argues Sunderland's crowd of about 24,000 for the 3-2 Brentford cup win was respectable, criticising social media pages for false 'empty seats' claims and clickbait.
Live coverage of Sunderland v Chelsea, with team news, match updates and reaction from the Stadium of Light.
A Chelsea-focused piece highlights Estêvão as a likely threat, while also arguing that Jordan Henderson and Mike Penders should start and that Brian Brobbey could pose a physical test for Wesley Fofana.
Sunderland host fourth-placed Chelsea with Régis Le Bris under pressure after one win in nine league games and a 2-0 Europa League defeat by Dinamo Zagreb.
Kevin Kilbane recalls Sunderland's back-to-back seventh-place finishes, Peter Reid's influence, packed away ends and the derby win at St James' Park as a career-defining day.
Sunderland are considering coach Jose Fonte as a replacement for Régis Le Bris, with pressure rising after a poor league start and a home defeat by Dinamo Zagreb.
Sunderland host Chelsea amid one win in nine league games, injuries and Omar Alderete's suspension. Régis Le Bris may recall Enzo Le Fée and Brian Brobbey. Prediction: Sunderland 0-2 Chelsea.
