I wouldnt be shocked if Fletcher was sold in January, just a feeling I have. I wouldnt bat an eye lid if we sold Johnson, even at 50% loss if it meant Poet could bring in a few of his own. Would we have been any worse off playing Mavrias or Karlsson instead of Johnson? He's gonna be remembered as our most disappointing signing of all time I think.
I have no idea of what could possibly happen today, although I am always nervous about away days in the north east. We have had good away results at Stoke (where we never win), and West Brom (where they were firing blanks afternoon) but as you know, we have taken some bad beatings on the road this season. On the plus side, Gary Hooper has hit some form, and if your back line don't pay attention, he will probably score again today. As of now, I would be more than happy with a draw (unless we play you off the pitch - unlikely) but I accept that is not enough for you guys (and I don't want to see Sunderland relegated either).
Mannone, Celustka, Bardsley, Brown, O'Shea (C), Cattermole, Ki, Larsson, Borini, Giaccherini, Altidore. Subs: Dossena, Gardner, Fletcher, Johnson, Colback, Roberge, Pickford. Ruddy; Whittaker, Turner, Bassong, Olsson; Snodgrass, Fer, Johnson, Redmond; Elmander, Hooper. Subs: Bunn (GK), van Wolfswinkel, Hoolahan, Garrido, Becchio, R Bennett, Josh Murphy.
Happy with that. I'd have Colback in for Larsson, but Gus will know Colbacks fitness better then I so I'm Happy. Wolfswinkel on the bench is a blessing too.
Glad to see borini start. Very similar to line up to the villa game, with the exception of cattermole, who strengthens us IMO Will be backing the Lads all the way today, they can do it
2-0 to Sunderland today and a much happier Christmas than it could've been. There are some very poor teams out there, like Norwich, that we need to take advantage of. Haway Lads!!!!!!!!!