Sunderland come into this midweek clash with Leicester City amid a tough start to life under caretaker boss Mike Dodds. The Black Cats suffered a fourth straight Championship loss at the weekend, losing to play-off chasing Norwich City away from home.
As a result, they’re now nine points away from the play-off spots. A mid-table finish looks likely for the Wearside outfit, though Dodds will be hoping to turn around their poor form.
Leicester City meanwhile are going through a real tough patch. Having looked imperious at the top of the Championship table for much of the season, they’re now only three points clear of 2nd placed Leicester City and five clear of Leeds United in 3rd.
Enzo Maresca’s side have lost three in a row, the most recent being the most concerning of the lot. The Foxes lost 2-1 at home to relegation-threatened QPR.
Here, a handful of our writers make their predictions for the game…
James Ray
“Leicester City are falling apart. Even the best Championship sides go through a bit of a blip, but three consecutive defeats has seen their big lead shrunk and their strong grip on top spot relinquished.
“They’re still in pole position for automatic promotion and the title but these losses are a real cause for concern. Even away from home though, they have a great chance to get back on track in this one.
Sunderland look set to stutter towards the end of the season and four consecutive losses have highlighted their clear shortcomings in the bid for another play-off finish.
“It’s a tough one to call with both sides in poor form, but given the position Sunderland are in and Leicester’s dire need for a win, I’ll go for a 2-1 away victory.”
Sunderland vs Leicester City prediction: 1-2
Harry Mail
“Sunderland’s hopes of a play-off finish are fading away fast. They were beaten again last time out by Norwich City.
“The Black Cats are missing key man Jack Clarke and need to hit form again soon or their season is over.
“As for Leicester City, they looked well on their way to the league title. However, they have started to drop points left, right and centre.
“I still think the Foxes will get over the line, but I can see them only getting a draw here at the Stadium of Light.”
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