After a edgy start, Sunderland have picked up their league form in recent months after the shock departure of Roy Keane. Many knew that things were not right up in the North East and after a disappointing start to the campaign mixed with a poor relationship with a few board members, Keane walked which allowed Ricky Sbragia to take temporary control of the side.
Sbragia enjoyed a good start and was rewarded with the full time position of manager. Since Sbragia became manager, Sunderland have been doing okay but will want their Premier League future sorted out soon as any team from 8th position downwards could still be dragged into the dogfight. Wigan know that their own future can be made more clear with a win on Saturday.
After 8 games without a win, Steve Bruce knows he will not want to be dragged into the relegation mix as others begin to take advantage of the poor form of the team recently. A tough January, followed by a difficult February has meant that Latics have slipped to 9th in the table and 4 points behind West Ham who now currently occupy 7th which could turn into a European spot depending on the outcome of the FA Cup. This has to be one of the closest Premier League campaigns since the competition began and with a good run resulting in a chance of European football and a poor run of results allowing you to be sucked into a battle for survival, Everything is still to play for.
Wigan Team News
Lee Cattermole begins his suspension which will allow either Paul Scharner or Ben Watson to take a role in midfield, Mido could be dropped down to the bench allowing Hugo Rodallega a start up front besides Amr Zaki and Cho Won-Hee should be on the bench after penning a two-and-a-half year deal.
Predicted Line Up
Kirkland
Melchiot Boyce Bramble Figueroa
Valencia Scharner Brown N'Zogbia
Rodallega Zaki
Key Players for Sunderland
Marton Fulop - Since Craig Gordon picked up an injury earlier in the season, Fulop has taken the jersey and made sure he keeps it after a string of fine performances. The Hungarian 'keeper has had to be patient in his quest to gain first team football forn the club and will want to make sure he maintains his good performances.
Tal Ben-Haim - The Israeli centre back joined Sunderland on loan in the transfer window after failing to nail down a first team position at Manchester City. Ben-Haim has also played for Bolton and Chelsea and is very experienced within the division.
Kieran Richardson - Richardson faces a fitness test after suffering an injury in the sides 1-1 home draw to Sunderland last week. If he plays, Richardson will add extra quality to a strong Sunderland team with his fierce left foot. A set piece specialist and can score a few goals from distance as well.
Kenwyne Jones - Signed from Southampton and has been getting better and better since his arrival. Has suffered from injuries recently but is now back to full fitness and will be a danger with his aerial ability and pace which allows him to get in behind defences. Bramble and Boyce will have a tough afternoon with Jones and Cisse upfront.
WIGANER.net Prediction
Sunderland have been strong at home this season and Wigan have been okay away from home but not great. Goals have been hard to come by for the club and if Steve Bruce decides to bring in Rodallega, Hopefully he may make an impact and grab his first goal for the club. A draw will be a good result in the circumstances.
WAFC 1-1 SAFC
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