Sunderland's fortunes turned against Newcastle last weekend as Paolo Di Canio picked up his first win as manager, while Everton underwhelmed in a goalless draw against Arsenal. The result is that Sunderland have moved three points above the relegation zone, while Everton fall a couple of points off the Europa League spots -- with Tottenham above them having a game in hand.
Sunderland vs. Everton: Preview and TV schedule
A significant game at both ends of the table, Sunderland can move further away from the relegation zone with a win, dealing a blow to Everton’s European hopes.
Stu Forster
Sunderland’s recent record against Everton isn’t a good one -- the Black Cats haven’t won in their last 16 league meetings with the Toffees, and their home form in the Premier League is poor too, with only West Ham losing at the Stadium of Light this year. However, with Everton winless in five on the road, and with Sunderland coming into this one buoyed by their win over Newcastle, this game is unpredictable.
Captain Lee Cattermole and top scorer Steven Fletcher are out for the rest of Sunderland's season, while Phil Bardsley, Carlos Cuéllar and Connor Wickham are early doubts. Craig Gardner will serve the second of a two match ban here. For Everton, Tony Hibbert and Leon Osman are both in doubt, but they're fit elsewhere.
Sunderland injuries and suspensions
Out: Lee Cattermole (knee), Steven Fletcher (ankle) In doubt: Phil Bardsley (ankle), Carlos Cuéllar (foot), Connor Wickham (knock)
Everton injuries and suspensions
Out: None In doubt: Tony Hibbert (calf), Leon Osman (groin)
Match Date\Time: Saturday, 3 p.m. local, 10 a.m. ET
Venue: Stadium of Light, Sunderland, England
TV: Fox Soccer Channel (U.S. English)
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