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Liverpool head to Wearside on Wednesday night knowing they face one of the Premier League’s toughest home atmospheres. Sunderland welcome Arne Slot’s side to the Stadium of Light for an 8.15pm GMT kick-off, unbeaten on their own patch this season and eager to test the Reds under the lights. With injuries, suspensions, and selection headaches on both sides, this midweek clash has all the ingredients of a gripping Premier League story.
Below is a complete look at the latest team news, manager updates, recent form, and what to expect when Sunderland and Liverpool collide.
A Big Midweek Test at the Stadium of Light
The Stadium of Light has been a fortress for Sunderland this campaign. Regis Le Bris’ side have made home games uncomfortable for every opponent, combining intensity, discipline, and crowd energy. Liverpool arrive after a narrow 2-1 defeat to Manchester City, a match that left physical and emotional marks on the squad.
For Arne Slot, this fixture comes at a tricky moment. Squad rotation may be necessary, but the Reds cannot afford to drop points against a newly promoted side if they want to stay in the title race. For Sunderland, this is a chance to make a statement against one of England’s biggest clubs.
Liverpool Team News: Defensive Questions and Midfield Absences
Liverpool’s preparations have been shaped by a familiar issue this season. Availability at right back remains uncertain.
Joe Gomez could make a welcome return to the matchday squad after missing time with the injury he suffered at AFC Bournemouth last month. Slot confirmed Gomez was expected to train with the group on Tuesday, although a starting role may be too soon.
Speaking ahead of the game, Slot explained the ongoing challenge in that position. He noted that if Gomez is not ready to start, Liverpool would be missing four players who have played there this season. Curtis Jones and Wataru Endo have also filled in at right back during the campaign, meaning Slot has already used six different players in that role.
Jeremie Frimpong remains unavailable after picking up a muscle injury against Qarabag, while Dominik Szoboszlai will also miss the trip to Sunderland. The Hungarian midfielder serves a one match suspension following his red card late in the loss to Manchester City. There is further bad news in terms of long-term injuries. Conor Bradley, Giovanni Leoni, and Alexander Isak are still sidelined and will not feature on Wednesday night.
Expected Liverpool Lineup and Tactical Shape
Despite the absences, Liverpool still travel with significant quality. Alisson is expected to continue in goal, with Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate anchoring the defense. The full back positions remain the biggest question, particularly on the right side.
In midfield, Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister are likely to shoulder extra responsibility in the absence of Szoboszlai. Florian Wirtz continues to grow into his role and could again be key in linking midfield to attack.
Up front, Mohamed Salah remains Liverpool’s most dangerous weapon. Alongside him, Cody Gakpo and Hugo Ekitike provide pace, movement, and goal threat. Against a disciplined Sunderland defense, patience and quick transitions will be crucial.
Sunderland Team News: Captain Missing but Confidence High
Sunderland enter the match with confidence, especially at home. However, Regis Le Bris will be without two important figures. Bertrand Traore and club captain Granit Xhaka both miss this game, a significant blow to Sunderland’s leadership and midfield control. Xhaka’s absence in particular removes experience and composure from the center of the pitch.
There was concern over Noah Sadiki after he was taken off midway through the second half of Sunderland’s 3-0 defeat at Arsenal. Le Bris has since confirmed that Sadiki is fit and ready, easing worries ahead of Wednesday night.
One positive for the Black Cats is the availability of Nilson Angulo. The winger made his debut as a late substitute at the Emirates Stadium after joining from Anderlecht on transfer deadline day. Le Bris confirmed that Angulo is ready to play, noting that he has trained well and played plenty of football at a good level this year.
Leadership Shift and the Rise of Trai Hume
With Xhaka unavailable, captaincy duties have been taken on by Trai Hume. Le Bris spoke warmly about Hume’s character and leadership, describing him as a perfect fit for Sunderland’s working class identity.
According to the head coach, Hume is balanced, intense, and earns everything he gets. His teammates value his advice, and his pre match speeches have been well received. Against a side like Liverpool, Sunderland will need that leadership and belief from the first whistle.
Last Time Out: Mixed Fortunes for Both Sides
Sunderland come into this match on the back of a tough 3-0 defeat away at Arsenal on February 7. Despite the scoreline, there were moments where they competed well before the game slipped away. Liverpool, meanwhile, suffered a narrow 2-1 loss at home to Manchester City on February 8. The Reds showed quality and fight, but small margins proved decisive. That result adds extra motivation for Slot’s side to respond positively on Wearside.
Key Battles That Could Decide the Match
One of the most intriguing aspects of this game will be how Liverpool handle Sunderland’s intensity, especially in midfield. Without Szoboszlai, Liverpool may lack some of their usual drive and pressing energy.
Sunderland will look to exploit any uncertainty at right back, pressing aggressively and delivering early balls into the box. Liverpool’s center backs will need to be alert, while Alisson’s distribution could play a major role in beating the press. At the other end, Sunderland must find a way to contain Salah. Doubling up on him could open space for Gakpo or Wirtz, so defensive discipline will be vital.
What to Expect on Wednesday Night
Expect a fast start from Sunderland, fueled by the home crowd and their unbeaten league record at the Stadium of Light. Liverpool will likely aim to control possession early, slow the tempo, and test Sunderland’s defensive structure.
This is the type of match where patience matters. If Liverpool score first, the game could open up quickly. If Sunderland manage to keep it tight into the second half, belief will grow, and the pressure on the visitors will increase.
Final Thoughts
Sunderland vs Liverpool may look like a mismatch on paper, but Premier League nights like this are rarely straightforward. Injuries, suspensions, and form all add layers of uncertainty, and the Stadium of Light has already proven it can unsettle even the strongest sides.
For Liverpool, this is about response and consistency. For Sunderland, it is about pride, intensity, and making home advantage count. Wednesday night promises drama, energy, and a genuine Premier League test for both teams.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com