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Sunderland Fan View: Norwich test should hold no fear for the Black Cats
Norwich are Sunderland’s first road trip of the Championship campaign and the Black Cats should be relishing the challenge. Each side came back from a goal down to earn a point in their opening fixtures, so it’s a game both teams will be eagerly awaiting. Let’s just hope the outcome of the 1985 Milk Cup Final result isn’t repeated! However, just like the Wembley final in the 80’s, things have moved on significantly since then.
Both sides are back in the second tier of English football after spells in the Premier League, both have changed their managers and both have overhauled their squads. Critically, Norwich have had a year to adapt to life in the Championship before the Black Cats decided to join them.
The home advantage, additional rest and more recent experience of the Championship may yet sway the match in the favour of the Canaries. However, if Simon Grayson’s side can show the sort of spirit that served them so well against Derby then Norwich shouldn’t have it all their own way.
Whoever the opponents, Sunderland have typically struggled for consistency over recent years. Back to back positive performances in the league have been as rare as Big Foot sightings on Roker Pier. However, following their display against the Rams, Sunderland shouldn’t be fearful and it will be compelling to see just how Grayson’s team perform. While my team may not always have the upper hand in terms of possession I’m hopeful that the back four can be more robust than it has been in the past.
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Whoever the opponents, Sunderland have typically struggled for consistency over recent years. Back to back positive performances in the league have been as rare as Big Foot sightings on Roker Pier. However, following their display against the Rams, Sunderland shouldn’t be fearful and it will be compelling to see just how Grayson’s team perform. While my team may not always have the upper hand in terms of possession I’m hopeful that the back four can be more robust than it has been in the past.
Given its frequent dysfunctional displays, solidifying the defence will be one of Grayson’s biggest challenges. At this early stage Everton loanee Brendan Galloway looks to be the weakest link and the finger of blame pointed squarely at him for Derby’s goal. Yet he grew into the game and it’s testament to his character that the youngster didn’t let that mistake weigh on his mind.
Left-back Bryan Oviedo will be returning from injury soon and with his undoubted quality I’m hopeful he can slot seamlessly back into the team. We may yet see Lamine Kone depart for pastures new before the transfer deadline and of course if that is the case another central defender is a must. Whether Grayson will have the funds to add quality remains to be seen.
However, with a resolute defence, the rumoured imminent arrival of striker Ross McCormack and a victory against Bury in the EFL Cup to help galvanise the squad Sunderland should at least compete during the new campaign. If that ends up being the case then that will be an improvement on last season.
