Sunderland reveal sparks concern ahead of Leeds United clash - 'We are in trouble'
Sunderland's team news for their clash with Leeds has sparked serious concern.
Sunderland play host to Leeds United at the Stadium of Light on Sunday, looking to maintain their unbeaten home run in the Premier League.
On the flip side, Leeds are looking for only their second away win since their return to the top flight.
However, the confidence is certainly with the latter ahead of the face-off, with Mackems fearing the worst after the latest team news.
Dan Ballard absence will be a huge blow
Sunderland already have six players away on AFCON duty, leaving them with a fairly bare squad until they make their return to Wearside.
However, that squad has been made even weaker with the absence of Dan Ballard, who misses out due to injury.
It means a return to the starting 11 for Dennis Cirkin, who hasn't featured since the play-off final victory against Sheffield United, with Nordi Mukiele shifting to centre back.
However, the bench has also sparked concern, with fans all left saying the same thing.
One supporter said: "We are in trouble at the back without Ballard," while another explained, "All the pressure is on Leeds - that’s half the second team."
Other supporters have been left questioning the strength in depth, with several youth players named on the bench.
Harrison Jones, Jenson Jones and Timur Tutierov all feature, which is arguably weaker than the options the Black Cats had in the Championship.
Sunderland win vs Leeds would be a statement victory
Leeds and Sunderland were both tipped for relegation this season, and yet both look as though they will avoid the drop.
Daniel Farke's side are in excellent form, and to secure three points against them with the squad available would be a huge statement for Sunderland.
The Black Cats will not want to end their 2025 with a defeat, nor will they want their unbeaten home run to come to an end against a side they would be expected to beat on paper.
It promises to be a tight encounter, and one that would speak volumes about the fringe players if the Wearsiders can come out on top.
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