Based on current form and league position, Sunderland appear strong favourites to come out on top against Everton on Monday night.
Many pundits are backing Regis Le Bris’ side to get a positive result at the Stadium of Light — but as football often reminds us, things rarely go as predicted.
David Moyes’ Everton will pose a stern test for Sunderland, something Le Bris is fully aware of.
What Regis Le Bris said about Everton
Speaking to the media ahead of Monday’s clash, Le Bris highlighted the main threats Everton bring to the table and the areas where they can hurt his side.
He said: “Everton have many strengths: they have good wingers, they can play directly, and they are very dangerous from set-pieces.”
While the aerial threat of Michael Keane is an obvious concern, it’s Jack Grealish who will likely be Sunderland’s biggest worry.
Grealish has been in fine form since joining Everton on loan, registering four assists and a goal already this season. Stopping him could be crucial to stopping Everton.
Nordi Mukiele’s biggest test yet
Sunderland have failed to score in their last three meetings with Everton, so Le Bris will be counting on his forwards to step up.
However, much of the spotlight will fall on Nordi Mukiele. The full-back has impressed this season, but containing Grealish may prove to be his toughest assignment yet.
It promises to be a captivating individual battle. Mukiele has shown he can handle tricky wingers while also contributing going forward — and if he succeeds again on Monday, there’s a strong case to be made that he’s been Sunderland’s signing of the summer.
That said, Granit Xhaka might have something to say about that.