After grinding out a 0-0 draw away at Crystal Palace, Sunderland returns home to host Aston Villa in matchday five of the Premier League season.
Squad Updates
Regis Le Bris updated the media on the health of his squad during his Friday press conference. A man of few words, Le Bris stated Enzo Le Fee is "probably" available this weekend, after picking up a minor knock that saw him not in the squad against Crystal Palace. Dan Ballard is also set to make his return to the squad, missing the last two league fixtures after picking up a groin injury in the early stages against Burnley. However, Luke O'Nien remains unavailable, with Le Bris claiming "we will have to wait one or two more weeks" for his return from his shoulder injury sustained in the Championship Playoff Final.
Sunderland Lineup
I predict Brian Brobbey will make his first Premier League start against Villa. Isidor thoroughly earned his start against Palace, but didn't provide much, so I feel the time is right to give Brobbey the keys. Le Fee and Ballard will almost certainly return on the bench, as their match fitness builds. I don't think Talbi will be losing his spot any time soon, as Le Bris voiced his vote of confidence in the young Moroccan.
Regis Le Bris says patience is needed with Chemsdine Talbi 🇲🇦⏳#SAFC | https://t.co/5m0xT0JhVH pic.twitter.com/Z0NgQa4wkn
— BBC Sport Tyne & Wear (@bbcnewcastle) September 19, 2025
The Opponents
Aston Villa have endured a difficult start to the season, having yet to score a goal in the Premier League after four games. A lot of this can be pinned upon their laundry list of injuries, including Andres Garcia, Ross Barkley, Boubacar Kamara, Amadou Onana, and Youri Tielemans. This by no means suggests that Aston Villa will be an easy game, and Sunderland will have to bring their best.
🦁 RLB on Aston Villa:
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) September 19, 2025
'They are a strong team. Their start has been below their expectations, but they are a top six team no doubt, so we will have to play our best football.' pic.twitter.com/KO2oyTambP
Match Prediction
I predict Sunderland will start strong, score early, then sit back and invite pressure. However, with international quality players such as Ollie Watkins, I think Villa will hit back late, ending in a 1-1 draw.
