Sunderland Vs Wigan

Kevin Ball takes charge of Sunderland in his first game against Wigan Athletic, a fellow promoted side who lie 30 points and 10 places higher in the league. This match gives us the chance to see how far apart these teams really are.

Vital Quotes:

Sunderland caretaker manager Kevin Ball:
‘I used to love walking out of the tunnel at the Stadium of Light in front of the fans as captain. Tomorrow it will be a totally different feeling because I’ll be the caretaker-manager but I am looking forward to it.

‘One thing I do know is that Wigan will turn up tomorrow and put in a performance because Paul Jewell is the kind of manager who will demand that from them’

Wigan striker Jason Roberts:
‘It was always going to be a tough game, but with them changing managers it is going to be even tougher because players are going to want to impress.

‘They could get a fresh bit of impetus like Newcastle have since Graeme Souness left.

‘Anyone who thinks we are going to go out there and find it easy is going to be mistaken. We are in for a tough game.”

Sunderland Team News:

Caldwell returns to the side as captain in place of the suspended Gary Breen. Ball may also be able to call on the returning strikers Chris Brown and Andy Gray should he wish to, both having recovered from injury. However it is expected that Kyle and Elliot will continue in attack, with Stead on the bench.

Ball’s midfield and defensive selection, bar Caldwell, are still anyone’s guess.

Player to watch: Steven Caldwell

Ball’s first major decision as manager was to recall Steven Caldwell in place of the suspended Gary Breen and name the Scottish international as captain. Caldwell should rise to the challenge and lead by example with a display of strength and passion. With Roberts and Camara to deal with, he’ll certainly be kept busy.

Wigan Team News:

Wigan boss Paul Jewell is in the fortunate position of being able to name an unchanged side from the team that were so unlucky to lose 2-1 against Manchester United on Monday.

With ‘keeper Mike Pollit still struggling with a hamstring injury John Filan will continue to deputise.

Player to watch: Jason Roberts

Has always caused Sunderland’s defence problems no matter what team or what level played at. Strength, pace and a knack to fall down in convenient places, his duel with Caldwell will be one that the game hinges on.

Match Facts & Stats

HEAD TO HEAD TOTALS
League: Sunderland 2 wins, Wigan 1, Draws 4
Prem: Sunderland 0 wins, Wigan 1, Draws 0


HEAD TO HEAD at Sunderland
League: Sunderland 1 win, Wigan 0, Draws 2
Prem: Sunderland 0 wins, Wigan 0, Draws 0

Ref Watch:

Mike Riley (Leeds)

Match Prediction:

Sunderland should be boyed and boosted by the new man at the helm, a spirited performance is the least expected of them. Wigan still seem to have more quality however, especially upfront, with Jason Roberts and Henri Camara constantly causing problems. Sunderland to grab a draw. 1-1