Premier League relegation battle will dominate Gameweek 34 action and at the very heart of it would the two teams who are trying hard not to get relegated this season.
Popular theory suggests that Aston Villa and Newcastle are certain to go down and either Sunderland or Norwich will join them as the third team. That is why their game this weekend is a crucial one for both the teams.
On paper and form, Norwich look the favorite to win the game but you can never count out Sunderland’s powers of recovery. Ahead of the game at Carrow Road, we take a look at three key questions which ought to be answered when Black Cats will be left among The Canaries.
Can Sunderland keep a clean sheet?
Sunderland have drawn 4 of their last 5 games but they will not be happy considering the fact that they lead in most of those games. Jermaine Defoe is a great outlet for goals but Sam Allardyce’s team needs to keep clean sheets to ensure their attackers to go on and get the goals.
Will Norwich miss Klose and Hoolahan?
Timm Klose has been Norwich’s best player for Norwich since his move from Wolfsburg. He has steadied Norwich’s defense and that is why his absence this weekend will be a blow for Alex Neil’s team.
As for Wes Hoolahan, reports have suggested that he will miss the game against Sunderland, which will hurt Norwich’s chances of creating and scoring goals as well.
Can Sunderland support Defoe upfront?
Against Leicester, the gap between Jermain Defoe and his support players was more than 40 yards. Likes of Wahbi Khazi and Fabio Borini have been acting more like wing-backs than supporting their lead striker.
Sunderland cannot afford to get pinned in their own area and allow Norwich to dictate the play. Add to it, they would want to make the most of the chances created and get the much needed win to ensure their Premier League safety.
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