‘I’m just saying…’ – Sean Dyche shares Sunderland challenge in new Premier League relegation verdict
Sean Dyche is a seasoned veteran when it comes to knowing how difficult it is to survive the drop in the Premier League.
Sunderland have had a good start to life in the Premier League, though they will be well aware of the challenges that still lie ahead.
Regis Le Bris’ side are still among the favourites for relegation this year, despite the fact that they have picked up six points from their opening three games in the top flight.
With that in mind, Dyche has weighed in on their chances of avoiding the drop, while using his past experiences as an example.
Sean Dyche impressed with what he has seen at Sunderland
Given the fact that Sunderland have already won as many games after three as Southampton achieved after 38 showcases how much progress has been made.
However, with AFCON to consider for Sunderland, and the remaining 35 fixtures of the season, nothing is guaranteed.
That is the point Dyche made when talking about the relegation battle live on talkSPORT on Sunday, 7 September.
“I think it’s gonna be difficult,” Dyche said.
“The money side is the first thing, but it’s getting the team to understand the Premier League and gel.
“Sunderland have had a great start, but having a great start and doing the whole season is a different thing.
“Obviously I’m not questioning them, I’m just saying from my experience it’s a marathon, not a sprint.”
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Stadium of Light form will be crucial for Sunderland
Six points from six and five goals scored; Sunderland could not have asked for a better start to their home form in the Premier League.
Sunderland’s home form
- Two wins (3-0, 2-1)
- Five scored
- One conceded
However, maintaining that will be the key, and if the Black Cats can achieve that, survival is more than achievable despite the trend.
A total of 57 points can be picked up at home alone, with the usual benchmark for survival set around the 40-point mark.
Le Bris needs to address the concerns over chance creation at Sunderland, and there will be various other concerns that emerge throughout the campaign.
With that said, the teams that achieve success are the ones that find ways around those issues, and that is ultimately the task that awaits the Wearsiders.
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