Sunderland vs Aston Villa: Team News and Injury Updates Ahead of Premier League Clash

The Stadium of Light is set to host a compelling Premier League encounter this weekend as Sunderland welcome Aston Villa for the first time since 2018. With both sides navigating early-season challenges, the match promises to be a test of depth, resilience, and tactical adaptability.

⚽ Form Guide: Contrasting Starts

Sunderland, newly promoted and widely considered underdogs on paper, have defied expectations with a solid start. Regis Le Bris’ side have picked up seven points from four matches, including wins over West Ham and Brentford, and a gritty draw away at Crystal Palace. Their only defeat came against Burnley in a 2–0 loss at Turf Moor.

Aston Villa, meanwhile, are still searching for their first league goal of the season. Unai Emery’s men sit 19th in the table, having collected just two points from four games. They are currently the only goalless team across England’s top eight divisions — a statistic they’ll be desperate to change on Sunday.

🩺 Sunderland Team News

The Black Cats are dealing with a handful of injury concerns, though there’s cautious optimism around a few key returns.

Likely to Return:

• Daniel Ballard – The centre-back is expected to be fit after missing the Palace draw.
• Luke O’Nien – Back in training and could feature for the first time since the play-off final.

Doubts:

• Enzo Le Fée – Missed last weekend due to a minor knock; Le Bris says there’s a chance he could return.

Ruled Out:

• Leo Hjelde – Still recovering from dual Achilles issues.
• Romaine Mundle – Not expected back until after the international break.
• Aji Alese – Shoulder injury continues to sideline the defender.
• Dennis Cirkin – Wrist and knee issues require extended rest.

Le Bris emphasized the need for caution with Cirkin:

“We have decided to step back, give him a real period of rest so that he can reset and get ready to reconnect with the squad.”

🩺 Aston Villa Team News

Villa’s injury list is similarly extensive, with several players nearing returns but still uncertain for Sunday.

Doubts:

• Amadou Onana – Hamstring injury; Emery hopes for a return soon but may wait until next week.
• Youri Tielemans – Calf issue sustained against Everton; unlikely to be risked.
• Andres Garcia – Long-term absentee; late fitness test required.
• Victor Lindelof – Missed Brentford clash with a minor knock; status unclear.
• Ross Barkley – Lacking match fitness after pre-season injury and personal matters.