Premier League preview and odds: Sunderland vs. Southampton

Published on: 05/11/2015

Premier League preview and odds: Sunderland vs. Southampton

November 7, 2015 15:00pm Stadium of Light

Premier League

Sunderland have a slim chance of poking their heads out of the relegation dungeon at the Stadium of Light this weekend, but they will need to beat a Southampton team that have their own sights set the European qualification places.

Back to reality for Sunderland

After the joy and elation that inevitably followed the win over arch rivals Newcastle, Sunderland were brought crashing down to earth last weekend at the hands of Everton. The six-two score-line once again highlighted the defensive frailties of Sam Allardyces team.

The derby victory was the Black Cats only win in their last six games, and the job of clawing their way out of the relegation gutter will not get any easier when Southampton arrive on Wearside this weekend.

Saints back on track

Southampton had a tough start to the season but have managed to transform their fortunes over the last five games. Having won just one of their first games, Ronald Koemans team were in danger of becoming embroiled in a relegation battle. However, a run of five games unbeaten including three wins has lifted them back up to seventh place in the table.

During their unbeaten streak, the Saints have defeated Chelsea and Swansea, and drawn against Liverpool and high-flying Leicester. In their last game, they eased past Bournemouth at St Marys, running out 2-0 winners thanks to goals from Steven Davis and Graziano Pellè. Unfortunately, they were reduced to 10 men in the second half when midfielder Victor Wanyama was dismissed after receiving a second caution.

Team news

The Mackems will be without Lee Cattermole who has a groin injury but will welcome back the previously absent quartet of Fabio Borini, Younes Kaboul, Ola Toivonen and John O`Shea.

Victor Wanyama is suspended for the Saints while Jay Rodriguez, Shane Long and Jose Fonte are all on the doubtful list.

Recent form (League)

Sunderland: LWLDL

Southampton: WDDWW

Betting odds and tips

Sunderland have improved marginally since Allardyce arrived but the same defensive issues are rearing their ugly head. Unless the northeast side can dramatically tighten up their back line, the visitors should have an easy day at the office. You can back the away win at 4/5 with Paddy Power.

Saints striker Graziano Pelle already has six goals this season and netted against Newcastle on his last visit to the northeast. You can back the Italian to score anytime at 7/5 with Bet365.

Published on: 05/11/2015

Any odds displayed within this preview were correct at the time of publishing (05/11/2015 17:23:41) but are subject to change.