Sunderland’s first game of the month is a tough encounter at home to title chasing Manchester City.
In the pair's last three outings City have come out 4-1 winners and with the hosts threatened by relegation, they can’t afford to make that four in a row.
Be in the game from the word go
The last time the two sides met was Boxing Day and City were 3-0 up within 25 minutes. Sunderland must not concede early and need to be on their game from kick-off.
The visitors have arguably the strongest side in the Premier League so there is little Big Sam’s men can do to prevent them dominating the game, but they must stop City’s attacking threat and be at the top of their game defensively.
Mark City's danger men
Sunderland struggled to deal with City’s attacking quality last time out and with Sergio Aguero back in action, that isn’t going to get any easier. Last time the Argentine visited the Stadium of Light he ran Sunderland ragged and bagged himself a hat-trick.
However, he’s not the only man who has caused Sunderland problems in the past. Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling each have two in two against the Wearsiders and the latter will be keen to take the burden off Aguero's shoulders. De Bruyne is out with a long-term injury, which is a major boost to Sunderland's chances.
Make the most of your chances
As bad as Sunderland were defensively on Boxing Day, Sam Allardyce’s side did manage to create chances of their own. If they are to take anything from this game they must clinical when it comes to finishing.
Fabio Borini scored a consolation goal at the Etihad, which meant City had failed to keep a clean sheet for eight consecutive games. Sunderland must take full advantage of that and find City’s defensive weaknesses.
Jermain Defoe is on good form at the moment and, as is well documented, the veteran striker will score if provided with adequate service.
Patrick van Aanholt is also in the form of his life and has four goals in Sunderland’s last four games, and the left-back will be looking to continue that. However the former Chelsea man must also remember to track back to defensively, as it would be extremely costly to leave any gaps against a team like City.
