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Ahead of their Championship clash at the Stadium of Light, Sunderland and Stoke City share more than just their red and white color scheme. Both teams have distinguished themselves as the youngest sides in the league, with an average age of just 22.7 years old.
Stoke City boss Narcis Pelach highlighted the similarities between the two clubs, praising their approach to talent development. He noted that both teams feature numerous young players, including Stoke’s top scorer Tom Cannon (21) and six regular starters aged 22 and under.
“We are the two youngest sides in the Championship,” Pelach explained. “I think we will see a lot of energy from both sides because this is what young players give. For the fans, it will be an exciting game.”
Despite their different league positions – Sunderland being nine places and 12 points ahead – both teams have shown similar recent form. Stoke have drawn three and lost one of their last four matches, while Sunderland recently ended a five-game draw streak.
Pelach was particularly effusive in his praise for Sunderland, calling their season “exceptional” and noting the benefit of players who have developed together over time. “The standard they have had is unbelievable,” he said.
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris faces a challenge with the absence of key player Romain Mundle. He’s demanding a collective approach to goal-scoring, emphasizing that scoring responsibility extends beyond strikers to wingers, midfielders, and set-piece takers.
“We have many elements to develop in the team,” Le Bris stated. “The only focus we should have is creating and converting more chances. We have the potential and the players in the team to do it.”
The match promises to be an intriguing encounter between two of the Championship’s most youthful and promising sides, with both teams looking to make their mark in the promotion race.
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