Preview: Sunderland vs Leeds United - prediction, team news, lineups

[(Sunderland A.F.C.) Strength]:
1. Sunderland A.F.C. currently sit 7th in the Premier League table with 27 points, trailing 4th-placed Chelsea F.C. by just 2 points, putting them well within striking distance of European football spots. As a newly promoted side, securing a spot in European football would be a historic achievement, and the entire club is highly motivated to realize this ambition. A victory in this round would not only bridge the gap to the top four but also significantly boost the team's morale and overall market value.
2. Sunderland A.F.C. forward Brian Brobbey excels at using his physicality to hold off defenders inside the penalty area, effectively creating space for teammates or acting as a focal point for incoming passes. Whether dealing with aerial balls or playing with the ball at his feet, Brian Brobbey possesses an exceptional clinical instinct in front of goal.
3. Sunderland A.F.C. recorded 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss in the last 5 league games, showing fit form. They drew 0-0 with Brighton & Hove Albion F.C. in the last round on the road.
4. Sunderland A.F.C. remained unbeaten with 5 wins and 4 draws in the last 9 home games, performing well at home. In the last home match, the team won 1-0 over Newcastle United F.C.
5. Sunderland A.F.C. received 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss in the last 5 home games against Leeds United, showcasing outstanding home performances.
6. Sunderland A.F.C. won 8 of the last 10 games in AH, demonstrating excellent winning strength.

[(Sunderland A.F.C.) Weakness]:
1. Sunderland A.F.C. defender Luke O'Nien will serve a suspension following a red card in this league game, while defender Ajibola Alese will be sidelined due to injury. Besides, multiple players are also unavailable for this Premier League round due to their commitments at the Africa Cup of Nations.
2. Sunderland A.F.C. conceded 6 goals in the last 5 games, featuring average defense.

[(Leeds United) Strength]:
1. Leeds United currently sit in 16th place in the standings with 19 points, just 6 points clear of the relegation zone. The team's defense has been virtually non-existent, conceding a staggering 31 goals across 17 rounds, with an average of nearly 2 goals per match. Furthermore, their away form is among the poorest in the Premier League, having picked up only 4 points on the road all season. The club is now in desperate need of points to distance themselves from the threat of relegation.
2. Leeds United forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin possesses elite aerial ability, serving not only as a potent goal-scoring weapon but also as the primary target for long balls during defensive-to-offensive transitions. With his sharp predatory instincts and clinical finishing, he is particularly dangerous when it comes to poaching goals inside the six-yard box.
3. Leeds United were unbeaten with 2 wins and 2 draws in the last 4 league games, revealing outstanding form. They secured a commanding 4-1 win over Crystal Palace F.C. in the last league match at home.
4. Leeds United won 5 consecutive games in AH, indicating great trends.

[(Leeds United) Weakness]:
1. Leeds United midfielder Sean Longstaff and forward Daniel James have both been ruled out of this round through injury. Additionally, the availability of striker Lukas Nmecha remains uncertain as he continues to struggle with a fitness concern.
2. Leeds United were winless with 1 draw and 4 losses in the last 5 league games away from home, demonstrating poor strength on the road. They drew 1-1 with Brentford F.C. in the last away game.
3. Leeds United conceded 9 goals in the last 5 games, featuring poor defense.

[Tips]:
Sunderland A.F.C. remained unbeaten with 5 wins and 4 draws in the last 9 home games, performing well at home.

The team are now 7th with 27 points in the Premier League.

Leeds United were winless with 1 draw and 4 losses in the last 5 league games away from home, demonstrating poor strength on the road.

They are currently 16th with 19 points in the league.

Besides, Sunderland A.F.C. received 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss in the last 5 home games against Leeds United, showcasing outstanding home performances.

With strong home performances and a better mentality, the home team are expected to take the initiative in this match.

Therefore, Sunderland are favored to remain unbeaten in this home game.

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