Not much went right for Manchester United last week as they suffered a season opening home loss against Swansea City. Now they'll travel to Sunderland to face the Black Cats who drew 2-2 against West Brom last weekend. United will again be without several players due to injury, but striker Robin Van Persie should return to the starting lineup. Sunderland defeated United twice last season in league play.
Sunderland vs. Manchester United: Preview and TV schedule
Manchester United look to bounce back from a season opening loss as they travel to face Sunderland.
Key Player: Robin van Persie (Manchester United)
It’s not a particularly bold statement to say that United are a far better club with Robin van Persie in the starting lineup. The offense works better, the team scores goals, and more often than not, they get points when the Dutch striker is able to play. Not having van Persie last week hurt the Red Devils, and while it wasn’t directly responsible for their defeat at the hands of Swansea City, it certainly didn’t help. Van Persie is familiar with Louis van Gaal’s system, he knows what the head coach wants his attack to do, and it’s hard to believe that United won’t look better on Sunday with their striker back ... as long as he doesn’t suffer a setback.
Key Matchup: United defense vs. Sunderland ... and themselves
United’s defense is decimated by injuries. Jonny Evans could play on Sunday, but it’s not likely. New signing Marcos Rojo remains unavailable with work permit issues, which leaves Louis van Gaal once again having to put together a makeshift back three, along with two wing backs. Darren Fletcher, Chris Smalling and Tyler Blackett could all play, and there’s also Anderson, Ashley Young and Adnan Januzaj to play on the wings. Basically, it’s a bit of a mess, which is great news for Sunderland’s attack. The bottom line is that United’s defense needs to play better.
Sunderland injuries and suspensions
Out: Emanuele Giaccherini. In Doubt: Billy Jones (hamstring), Santiago Vergini (knock).
Manchester United injuries and suspensions
Out: Luke Shaw (hamstring), Michael Carrick (ankle), Jonny Evans (leg), Marouane Fellaini (ankle), Jesse Lingard (knee), Anders Herrera (ankle), Marcos Rojo (work permit). In Doubt: Rafael (fitness), Danny Welbeck (knee).
United's injury list remains substantial with six players out for Sunday's match. Luke Shaw and Anders Herrera have yet to make competitive debuts for the Red Devils, and it could be a few more weeks before that happens. Rafael's fitness continues to make him doubt, while Danny Welbeck's knee is less of an issue than the news that he's viewed as superfluous to van Gaal's needs.
Sunderland will be without Emanuele Giaccherini who continues to struggle with a groin injury. Defenders Billy Jones and Santiago Vergini are minor doubts, and should be available for selection.
Match Date/Time: Sunday, 4 p.m. local, 11 a.m. ET
Venue: Stadium of Light, Sunderland, England
TV: NBCSN, Telemundo (U.S.), Sky SPorts 1/HD (U.K.), Sportsnet World (Canada)
Online: NBC Sports Live Extra (U.S. - English), Deportes Telemundo En Vivo (U.S. - Spanish), Sky Go (U.K.)
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