After the humbling at Stamford Bridge last week the Baggies will be looking to bounce back against Steve Bruce’s Black Cats. However, the loss of Ishmael Miller to injury will make the task more difficult. Albion have strengthened by bringing in Odemwingie, who is likely to start on the bench and Tchoyi who will not feature today.
It is very difficult to see where the goals will come from today for the Baggies but they will be in with a chance if they can manage to keep a clean sheet at the other end. To do this they will need to cut out the mistakes and perhaps reorganise the midfield with Dorrans moving to the centre instead of Brunt as both players were completely ineffective in the roles they were deployed in against the Champions.
West Brom Team News:
Miller and Mattock both sustained injuries in training through the week and are likely to be out of action for a few weeks. Otherwise the Baggies will be the same as last week apart from the addition of Odemwingie to the squad.
Player to watch: Graham Dorrans
After an unimpressive display last week Dorrans will be looking to kick off his Premier League campaign with a dazzling display to justify the reputation as Albion’s star player.
Sunderland Team News:
Cattermole, Turner and Mensah will be missing for Sunderland which may gave the Baggies some hope.
Player to watch: Darren Bent
Darren Bent’s movement and pace could well trouble Albion’s defence who looked so static against Chelsea
Match Prediction:
1-1
Next Fixtures:
Leyton Orient in the League Cup on 24 August followed by an away trip to Liverpool on 29 August.