Alious
Despite leading the Championship, Sunderland approach their away match against Millwall with significant challenges. The Black Cats face multiple absences, including suspensions for Alan Browne, Romain Mundle, Patrick Roberts, Trai Hume, and Jobe Bellingham, forcing manager Regis Le Bris to potentially restructure his lineup.
Millwall boss Neil Harris, while acknowledging Sunderland’s challenges, emphasized that the league leaders are top of the table for legitimate reasons. Despite ranking 13th in ‘Expected Goals’, Sunderland have demonstrated remarkable efficiency, scoring 25 goals from an XG of just 18, largely thanks to Wilson Isidor’s exceptional finishing.
Defensively, the team has also overperformed, conceding only 11 goals from an XG of 16. Harris attributes this success to consistent individual performances and a disciplined defensive approach. “You pretty much deserve to be where you are in the league after 15 games,” Harris explained, praising Sunderland’s ability to win nine games and maintain a solid backline.
The match presents an intriguing tactical battle. Millwall enters in impressive form, having already taken seven points from promotion rivals Leeds United, Burnley, and West Brom. With only Isidor and Chris Rigg available from Sunderland’s most dynamic players, the Black Cats face a genuine test of their championship credentials.
Le Bris remains committed to maintaining the team’s successful approach, aiming to recapture the form that lifted them five points clear at the top of the table just a month ago.
Alious
