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High-Stakes Championship Clash Marred by Extensive Injury List
A compelling midweek fixture awaits as table-topping Sunderland prepares to host sixth-placed West Bromwich Albion at the Stadium of Light, though both sides face significant personnel challenges. The match pits two in-form teams against each other, with Sunderland riding a nine-game unbeaten streak while West Brom hasn’t tasted defeat in eight matches.
While Sunderland receives a boost with the return of suspended trio Jobe Bellingham, Patrick Roberts, and Trai Hume, both teams are grappling with a substantial list of unavailable players.
The Black Cats’ injury concerns are particularly extensive. Recent signing Romaine Mundle faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a hamstring issue, while Alan Browne’s leg fracture adds to their midfield woes. The defensive unit remains depleted with Jenson Steelt’s knee injury ruling him out until 2025, and Niall Huggins potentially missing the entire season following his December knee injury.
Summer acquisitions Salis Abdul Samed and Ahmed Abdullahi are yet to make their debuts, both targeting mid-December returns, while Ian Poveda’s muscular injury has limited his impact to just three substitute appearances.
West Brom’s absentee list includes suspended right-back Darnell Furlong, while Semi Ajayi requires surgery for a hamstring injury. Former Sunderland player Paddy McNair will miss the reunion due to hamstring issues, and striker Daryl Dike’s achilles setback extends his absence beyond the Christmas period.
Despite their impressive unbeaten runs, both teams have struggled to secure victories recently, with Sunderland winning just once in five games and West Brom managing a single victory in ten attempts. However, Sunderland’s unbeaten home record and recent dominance over West Brom adds an intriguing dimension to this crucial Championship encounter.
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