Sunderland vs Norwich predictions: Black Cats can keep up the pressure

- Sunderland are unbeaten in their last 10 home fixtures
- Norwich have gone seven away games without a victory
- Recommended bet: Sunderland to win

Sunderland went through a winless November, taking five points from six games, but they have started strongly in December and are approaching their home fixture with Norwich with plenty of confidence.

Regis Le Bris’s side are unbeaten in their last three matches and kept up the pressure on those above them with last Saturday’s 3-2 success at Swansea.

The Wearsiders are sitting fourth — only five points below leaders Sheffield United — and could be as high as second on Christmas Day.

Norwich reached the play-offs last season but they have struggled for consistency and are eight points outside of the top six.

The Canaries are winless in three after last Sunday’s 2-1 loss at home to high-flying Burnley.

Team news

Sunderland's injury list lengthened when Tom Watson (knee) was forced off during the 1-1 draw at home to Bristol City. The Black Cats are also without Allan Browne (broken leg), Romaine Mundle (hamstring), Jenson Seelt and Niall Huggins (both knee).

Norwich are patiently awaiting the return of key striker Josh Sargent (groin), who is not expected to feature before the end of the year. Liam Gibbs (hamstring) and Gabriel Forsyth (knee) are also out of contention.

The stats

Sunderland have kept clean sheets in six of their last 10 home matches.

The Black Cats have not scored more than two goals in any of their last nine home fixtures.

Seven of Sunderland’s last 10 games have featured less than three goals.

Norwich have failed to score in three of their last four away games.

Five of Norwich’s last six matches have featured at least three goals.

The Canaries have kept just one clean sheet in their last 12 fixtures.

Prediction

Sunderland are among four Championship teams with an unbeaten home record and they should be too strong for Norwich in their final Wearside engagement of 2024.

November was a tough month for the Black Cats, who were substantially weakened by injuries and suspensions.

The Black Cats still have some important players on the sidelines but they look healthier than a few weeks ago and were worthy 3-2 winners at Swansea last weekend where they fought back superbly from a two-goal deficit.

Sunderland are likely to be looking forward to the hectic festive period but there may be a few doubts in the Norwich camp after a recent downturn in fortunes.

The Canaries slipped to 12th after last Sunday’s 2-1 loss at home to Burnley.

They have won only twice in 11 away games and that tally is unlikely to increase on one of their toughest assignments of the campaign.

Back Sunderland to win at 3/4 with LiveScore Bet.

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