Roker Report - Sunderland 1-1 Manchester United: As It HappenedSunderland AFC's foremost blog and Podcast!https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/51357/rr-fav.png2014-08-26T17:44:27+01:00http://rokerreport.sbnation.com/rss/stream/58263082014-08-26T17:44:27+01:002014-08-26T17:44:27+01:00Talking Tactics: Manchester United (H)
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<p>Sunderland came from behind to draw 1-1 with Manchester United at the Stadium of Light, with Jack Rodwell heading home the equaliser for the Black Cats.</p> <h4><b>Line Up</b></h4>
<p>Gus Poyet made two changes to the side that drew 2-2 away at West Bromwich Albion last Saturday. Santiago Vergini lined up to make his second Sunderland debut after re-joining the club on loan, the Argentinian replaced Valentin Roberge and slotted in at right-back allowing Wes Brown to reclaim his usual position at centre-half. An illness to Adam Johnson meant Will Buckley was thrust into the first-team for a daunting full debut, taking the place of the England international on the right-hand side of Sunderland’s midfield.</p>
<p>Poyet continued with his tried and tested 4-1-4-1 formation, and Steven Fletcher was again the preferred choice to lead the line for Sunderland leaving Connor Wickham to play from the left-hand side for the second week in a row.</p>
<h4><b>Opposition</b></h4>
<p>A change in system just two weeks into the season would have meant Louis Van Gaal admitting he got his tactics horribly wrong ahead of the 2-1 defeat to Swansea last Saturday, so it’s unsurprising that Manchester United again lined up with the Dutch manager’s signature 3-4-1-2 formation. This particular system is characterised by its requirements in two specialist positions – left and right wing-back- and is immediately compromised by the fact that Van Gaal has no personnel fully equipped to fill either of these positions anywhere in his current squad. Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young were the pair tasked with manning the right and left wing-back roles respectively, with Valencia probably slightly better equipped than Young having at least some experience of playing as a right-back at United.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">With business still to be done in the transfer market, United are a stretched side at the moment and absentees for this fixture only stretched the squad even further. Van Gaal welcomed the return of his compatriot Robin Van Persie who was immediately reinstated into the first team, but £30 million pound signing Ander Herrera was forced to miss out through injury, leaving Tom Cleverly to fill the boots of the absent Spaniard.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4937138/Line_Ups__Man_Utd_.png"><img src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4937138/Line_Ups__Man_Utd__medium.png" class="photo" alt="Line_ups__man_utd__medium"></a> <br id="1409058535024"></p>
<h4><b>Approach</b></h4>
<p>Of course, as usual, Gus Poyet will have prepped the players to implement his brand of possession-based football in an attempt to control the tempo of the game and limit the amount of time Manchester United have on the ball. But aside from the 46-year-old’s general ethos, the Uruguayan’s match-specific preparations for this fixture will no doubt have been focussed on exploiting Manchester United’s obvious current weaknesses.</p>
<p>The 3-4-1-2 formation deployed by Van Gaal is very similar to a 3-5-2 system, both of which require a great deal of training, patience and ultimately the right personnel before they can be successful – look no further than Gus Poyet’s own brief failure to utilise 3-5-2 at Sunderland last season for evidence of that. With Van Gaal’s managerial tenure at Manchester United only one competitive game old before Sunday’s game, this was a chance for Poyet to capitalise on an un-adjusted Mancester United side.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Generally, the most effective way to neutralise a 3-4-1-2 system is to pin back the wing-backs as best as possible and limit the amount of support they are able to give in attack, forcing the opposition to play through a congested area in the middle of the park.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Rather than tasking your wide midfielders to man-mark the wing-backs, the easiest way to achieve this is by encouraging the wide men to hold a position in the space vacated behind the wing-backs, forcing the said wing-backs to have one eye on their defensive responsibilities.</p>
<h4><b>Execution</b></h4>
<p>Sunderland started the better of the two teams. With the home crowd behind them, the Black Cats looked hungry and were successful in controlling possession in the early exchanges while Manchester United looked tentative to say the least.</p>
<p>It became apparent pretty early on in the game that Gus Poyet had decided to adopt a more unpredictable approach in order to neutralise Van Gaal’s 3-4-1-2 system. Rather than Wickham and Buckley holding a position up the pitch to pin back Valencia and Young, without the ball Sunderland were folding into what was essentially a back five. Buckley was retreating to counter Ashley Young’s attacking advances, with Van Aanholt responsible for dealing with Valencia on the opposite flank. Santiago Vergini was then free to move inside to act as almost a third centre-half man marking Van Persie, with Wes Brown doing the same job on Wayne Rooney. This left John O’Shea to act as the covering defender, whilst Lee Cattermole marshaled Juan Mata.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><a target="_blank" href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4937162/Sun_Back_5_2_EDIT.png"><img src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4937162/Sun_Back_5_2_EDIT_medium.png" class="photo" alt="Sun_back_5_2_edit_medium"></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">This particular approach requires an extreme amount of organisation and discipline, and it’s a huge credit to Poyet’s tactical nous and match preparation that Sunderland successfully pulled it off for 90 minutes. Both Wayne Rooney and Robin Van Persie were almost completely nullified all afternoon and offered very little influence on the game thanks to this defensive system.</p>
<p>Unfortunately for Sunderland, the one instance we really saw Manchester United manage to break this defensive shape it lead to the opening goal of the game. In the passage of play in question, Lee Cattermole was forced to pass on Juan Mata to Sebastian Larsson so as to double up on Antonio Valencia attempting a cross at the by-line. The cross wasn’t stopped, and Juan Mata escaped Sebastian Larsson to tap in with ease at the far post. A shame for Sunderland who defended well for the whole game, but were punished for one momentary lapse in concentration. On the up side, it was the only real chance Manchester United were allowed to create all afternoon, so I’m sure Gus Poyet will feel very positive about that and it bodes well for the season ahead.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4937178/Man_United_goal_edit.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Man_united_goal_edit_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4937178/Man_United_goal_edit_medium.png"></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">From an attacking point of view, Sunderland were seeing enough of the ball but were unable to piece together passes where it really mattered. This was largely down to the fact that Manchester United were exerting a very low amount of pressure in the final third of the field and allowing Sunderland to move the ball around providing it was in their own defensive third. With so much congestion in the middle of the park, and with Manchester United retreating so deep, the Black Cats weren’t being allowed much room to put together a passing move in the opposition half and as a result clear cut chances were few and far between.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Looking at Sunderland's equaliser, there's not a lot that can be said about it other than the new man showed some decent movement and took the header quite well. Sunderland have been clever with set pieces since Gus Poyet has been in charge, but this was as straight forward as you’ll see. Shocking marking from Manchester United, far too easy for Rodwell to climb unchallenged to head home.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The remainder of the game featured a few heart in mouth moments for Sunderland fans. The Black Cats never really managed to create a chance good enough to win the game aside from Wickham's brief sight at goal early in the second half, and Manchester United looked the keener to push for a winner. The game finished 1-1 and Gus Poyet seemed reasonably content with what is a good point and the second week in a row his side have come from behind to claim a draw.</p>
<h4><b>Conclusion</b></h4>
<p>Tactically, Gus Poyet got it absolutely spot on and a draw at home to Manchester United under any circumstances is a very decent result. Sunderland were superb defensively, but the front three lacked the necessary incision and conviction needed to take the game to Van Gaal’s side, and ultimately this is what prevented Sunderland from snatching all three points on the day.</p>
<p>Will Buckley had a very good game, there’s no denying that, but Connor Wickham is not being allowed to show his true worth out on the left-hand side and Steven Fletcher again was hugely ineffectual as a lone striker. Like last week, Fletcher simply isn’t successfully playing the role. The Scotsman isn’t winning enough duels, he isn’t holding the ball up sufficiently and for that reason Sunderland aren’t being allowed to advance up the pitch in order to create chances.</p>
<p>Statistically, the comparison below of both Connor Wickham and Steven Fletcher proves that the former is far more suitable to play the lone striker role at Sunderland, and I’m confident we will see that happen as soon as Poyet recruits sufficient cover for the wide positions.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/4937252/Wickham_v_utd.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Wickham_v_utd_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4937252/Wickham_v_utd_medium.png"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4937260/Fletcher_v_utd.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Fletcher_v_utd_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4937260/Fletcher_v_utd_medium.png"></a> <br id="1409062641221"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">For me, Fletcher has a lot to prove next week at QPR (if he starts), even Jozy Altidore proved in a brief fifteen minute cameo that he may even be the better choice to lead the Sunderland attack. The American may not have a handsome goal return on his side, but his physical attributes and determination alone could ultimately benefit the team enough to justify his involvement ahead of Fletcher at this moment in time.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">A notable strong debut from Will Buckley. Lee Cattermole was impressive, as was Vergini and Van Aanholt both of whom made some very important interceptions.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Jack Rodwell will be very pleased after notching a goal in his first game at the Stadium of Light, but we are yet to see what he really has to offer, and patience is needed whilst he gets back to speed with life as a first-team regular.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Looking ahead to the trip to Loftus Road next Saturday, QPR have suffered a torrid start to the season with Harry Redknapp sporting a similar shape to Van Gaal at Manchester United (3-5-2). Providing that the R’s boss doesn’t abandon his system and revert his players back to a more conventional flat-back four, Poyet could be licking his lips after a very competent performance on Sunday.</p>
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https://rokerreport.sbnation.com/2014/8/26/6069111/talking-tactics-manchester-united-hAlexander Stebbings2014-08-25T14:41:14+01:002014-08-25T14:41:14+01:00Quick Kicks: Thoughts And Reaction From Sunderland
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<figcaption>Laurence Griffiths</figcaption>
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<p>Here's some things we took from the 1-1 draw with Man Utd...</p> <h4>What the gaffer said</h4>
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<p>We had a very good first half, an exciting first half. There was a terrific atmosphere in the stadium and even conceding a goal didn't affect the team or the fans at all.</p>
<p>There was more work to be done in the second half, but we need to understand that this is going to happen. You get tired, or the opposition is stronger, but these players are trying to get a result and we've got another point on the table so overall a very good day for us.</p>
<p>It was exciting to watch and we came back into the game; I'm very pleased with how we performed on the first half.</p>
<p>We talked about the mentality of the team last week and we can talk about this again. Last year if we had gone a goal down in this game we would probably have lost two or 3-0, but the team didn't get nervous or feel pressured and they just kept playing.</p>
<p>It was exciting to watch Will Buckley on the right side; the fans are going to love him.</p>
<p>I know him [Will Buckley] well and I know how much he improved during my two years at Brighton. He knows what we want from him and he's such a professional that he will listen to you and do it to the best of his ability.</p>
<p>I think it was a great afternoon to play well and take a point from a top team - even the weather was good, so even if we didn't win we need to be happy with that result.</p>
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<h4>Sunderland Is Finally A Side That Knows Itself</h4>
<p>We've had all sorts of Sunderland sides take to the field over the years. But not since the best seasons under Peter Reid have I had confidence that every single player understands what their job is from the first minute until the last.</p>
<p>I highly doubt we'll finish 7th like back then, but we have finally have a team that knows itself, and that we as fans know. I'm trying not to use the word 'identity' because it seems a bit cliched now but you know that's what I'm driving at.</p>
<h4>Buckley Could Be Bargain Of The Century</h4>
<p>Will Buckley could be a player who bridges the gap between the old school fan and he (or her) who sees himself (or herself) as some sort of modern day football hipster. While there'll be some who'll simply never allow themselves to evolve and accept this new found identity, the former Brighton man is a mutual crowd pleaser based on first impressions.</p>
<p>He appears to have the movement and intelligence to play across an interchangeable front three, something that's vitally important in Premier League today. But he'll also get the "up and at 'em" crowd off their seats because of his directness. No matter what day and age we're in, and what part of what system you play in, if you run at defenders with purposefulness, excitement levels rise and the atmosphere turns up a notch.</p>
<p>Kevin Kilbane and James McClean both had debuts that saw impressive late cameos; running and beating defenders before putting marvellous crosses in. They were moments that dictated conversations in pubs across Wearside for a couple of hours afterwards, offering hope and anticipation to supporters.Neither delivered what we hoped for. Buckley displayed more intent to persevere with this in 60 minutes than either of the aforementioned did in the rest of their Sunderland careers. (maybe slight exaggeration in the case of McClean)</p>
<h4>We Potentially Have An Imposing Midfield</h4>
<p>When Gus Poyet implemented his system after his first few games, it was clear the ridiculous days of seeing two underwhelming central midfielders being overran were over. That's not to say we've dictated and orchestrated play in every game, and it's not to say we haven't lost many a midfield battle. We have. Of course we have, we're Sunderland.</p>
<p>But Lee Cattermole keeps getting better and better, driving the side forward and allowing the more advanced players to maintain their shape and receive the ball in better areas of the field. Had Steve Bruce or Martin O'Neill thought about playing similar systems, either could still be in charge now. Add this to the fact that something has clicked with Seb Larsson, and we're two thirds the way there. After pondering about for the best part of three years, the Swede is suddenly moving the ball quickly and has figured out how to grab control of the game.</p>
<p>So then we have Jack Rodwell. Off the pace at The Hawthorns, there was a marked improvement from last week from the former Everton golden boy. He's still a bit behind the others but a goal will have made a significant impact in regards to his self-belief and determination to keep improving. When a fit and in-form Rodwell starts making his mark on an already functioning midfield then we could really be in business.</p>
<h4>Fletcher Continues To Look Out Of Sorts</h4>
<p>While we all laud the new system and get ourselves excited about what we could be with a couple of even better players, there's one guy who'll have contrasting thoughts. Steven Fletcher is a fantastic goalscorer and centre forward in the right set up. One that isn't ours.</p>
<p>If we bring in a left sided front player and consider that Will Buckley and Adam Johnson could possibly play in the same side, then it doesn't take a brain surgeon to work out who'll be making way. I'd be truly amazed if Connor Wickham wasn't employed as a striker from when the transfer window shuts, and based on the two games so far this season, I'd personally question whether Fletcher should even be given the nod over Jozy Altidore.</p>
<p>He's looking more and more like a saleable asset now, for me, and he'd be a very decent signing for a side who pay two up front. If we could bring in around 6/7 million for him and reinvest that elsewhere, it could well be the sensible thing to do. For the record, I really like Fletcher and campaigned for us to sign him long before we did. Nobody would be happier for him to start performing from now than me. I hope he does.</p>
https://rokerreport.sbnation.com/2014/8/25/6064875/quick-kicks-thoughts-and-reaction-from-sunderland-1-1-manchester-utdGoldylad2014-08-24T19:28:51+01:002014-08-24T19:28:51+01:00Manchester United vs Sunderland: Player Ratings
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<figcaption>Laurence Griffiths</figcaption>
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<p>Your weekly chance to tell us how little we know! </p> <h4>Vito Mannone - 7</h4>
<p>Dependable, solid, brave and got a little luck when he needed it too. May just take a little shifting, but that's nothing we didn't already know.</p>
<h4>Santiago Vergini - 7</h4>
<p>Lovely second debut. You never really know what you're going to get from the Argentine but he rarely seems out of control. One of the more lovable Sunderland enigmas of recent years.</p>
<h4>John O'Shea - 7</h4>
<p>He didn't stand out, but since when has that been a bad thing for a defender? He did what was required.</p>
<h4>Wes Brown - 8</h4>
<p>Well he certainly did stand out. The former Manchester United defender was occasionally sloppy in possession, but in terms of actual defending he was colossal.</p>
<h4>Patrick van Aanholt - 7</h4>
<p>Done - again - defensively for the goal but I think everyone accepted that we were getting a player who needed a little work. He provided a real presence down that left-hand flank, though, and in his defence he received little defensive help in front of him.</p>
<h4>Lee Cattermole - 8</h4>
<p>What a player Cattermole has become. This was another imposing performance which was good enough to take home the <i>Sky Sports </i>man of the match award. He misses out on ours by the slitheriest of slithers, but he has firmly established himself as the heart and soul of this side.</p>
<h4>Seb Larsson - 7</h4>
<p>A tireless performance in the midfield and an assist for the goal to boot. Fine afternoon's work for the reinvigorated Swede.</p>
<h4>Jack Rodwell - 7</h4>
<p>You can still see he is struggling a little for sharpness, but helped himself to a goal and did enough elsewhere to whet the appetite for more.</p>
<h4>Connor Wickham - 6</h4>
<p>He seemed a little too preoccupied with proving he was big and strong instead of doing the simple things that really make a difference. He is still learning the position, so you have to have patience, but you feel there is so much more to come from him.</p>
<h4>Will Buckley - 8</h4>
<p>Man of the match, for me. See below.</p>
<h4>Steven Fletcher - 5</h4>
<p>When you're a touch and movement player - which Fletcher is - and you don't move and lose your touch, you may just find yourself in trouble. The excuses are quickly running out for the Scot.</p>
<h4>Jordi Gomez - 5</h4>
<p>He seemed a little nervy on his home debut. Oddly tentative for such an experienced player.</p>
<h4>Jozy Altidore - 6</h4>
<p>You almost don't want to say he 'put himself about a bit', because it's a historic backhanded compliment to proper carthorse strikers. He did, though, didn't he. He made an impact. You have to give him that.</p>
<h4>Liam Bridcutt - 6</h4>
<p>Sent on to stiffen up the midfield and he did that.</p>
<h4>Man Of The Match: Will Buckley</h4>
<p>It was a desperately close run thing between Buckley, Brown and Cattermole, but Buckley shades it for me. He was the person who provided that little spark that was needed to get the draw. He was a willing runner, an incisive dribbler, and a responsible defender. That all-round nature of the performance was what shaded it. Looking forward to seeing where he goes from here.</p>
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https://rokerreport.sbnation.com/2014/8/24/6062957/manchester-united-vs-sunderland-player-ratingsmichaelgraham2014-08-24T18:00:36+01:002014-08-24T18:00:36+01:00Sunderland 1-1 Man United: Points Are Shared
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<figcaption>Michael Regan</figcaption>
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<p>Two draws from two games as Rodwell grabs a home debut goal to earn Sunderland a deserved point.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span>Jack Rodwell</span>’s 30<sup>th</sup> minute equaliser ensured <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://rokerreport.sbnation.com/">Sunderland</a> stayed unbeaten as the points are shared at the Stadium of Light.</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span>Sunderland started the game brightly with assured possession and midfield pressing. The first chance of the game fell to Cattermole after a loose United throw - in was pounced upon but his shot flashed wide of the post.</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span>Sunderland nearly took a deserved lead on 15 mins after a great run by Buckley down the right wing created the opening for Wickham, but he could only shoot straight at De Gea.</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span>The Black Cats were made to pay for Wickham’s miss a minute later when United took the lead against the run of play. Valencia had isolated Van Aanholt on the left side and his low cross was tapped in at the back post by <span>Juan Mata</span>. </span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span>Sunderland were still passing the ball around well and created another chance on 27 mins. It was Wickham again who latched onto another loose ball on the edge of the box only to see his effort go wide off De Gea’s post. </span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span>The equaliser came on 30 mins from a Larsson corner. Great persistent play from Will Buckley down the right side forced Blackett to put the ball out for a corner where Jack Rodwell rose highest to powerfully head the ball into the bottom corner. </span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span>The second half started much like the first with Sunderland applying early pressure. <span>Connor Wickham</span> took a snap shot volley that deflected agonisingly off Blackett just wide of the goal. </span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span>As the half progressed <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/">Manchester United</a> were seeing more of the ball as Sunderland were sitting too deep. On 60 mins Van Persie drove at the defence but Vergini made a last ditch tackle to deny him. </span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span>Sunderland were scrambling at the back after John O’Shea gave the ball away and were let off the hook when <span>Ashley Young</span> saw a yellow card for simulation after diving in the box under a challenge from Vergini.</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span>The later stages of the game saw end to end action with half chances being traded at either end as both sides were struggling to maintain possession. United could have taken an undeserved lead on 77 mins after Ashley Young’s run wasn’t tracked but <span>Vito Mannone</span> came rushing out to slide tackle Young to avert the danger.</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span>Both teams applied late pressure but neither could find a way through two stubborn defences.</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span>Sunderland </span></b><b><span>(4-3-3)</span></b><b><span>:</span></b><span> Mannone, Vergini, van Aanholt, Brown, O'Shea (c), Cattermole, Larsson, Rodwell (Gomez 63’), Buckley (Bridcutt 78’), Wickham, Fletcher (Altidore 76’).</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span>Subs:</span></b><span> Pantilimon, Roberge, Jones, Bridcutt, Gomez, Mavrias, Altidore.</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span>Goals: Rodwell (30’)</span></i></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span> </span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span>Manchester United </span></b><b><span>(3-5-2)</span></b><b><span>:</span></b><span> De Gea, Blackett, Jones, Smalling (Keane 43’), Valencia, Young, Cleverley, Fletcher (Januzaj 62’), Mata, Rooney (c), Van Persie (Welbeck 62’).</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span>Subs:</span></b><span> Amos, James, Keane, Kagawa, Januzaj, Chicharito, Welbeck.</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span>Goals: Mata (16’)</span></i></p>
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https://rokerreport.sbnation.com/2014/8/24/6062749/sunderland-1-1-manchester-united-points-are-shared-at-the-stadium-ofDavid McColgan2014-08-24T15:10:04+01:002014-08-24T15:10:04+01:00Sunderland vs Man United: Confirmed Line-Ups
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<figcaption>Stu Forster</figcaption>
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<p>The team sheets are in for the first home game of the season.</p> <p>Santiago Vergini comes in at right back, allowing Wes Brown to switch back to his more familiar central position where he renews his partnership with ex-Manchester United defender John O'Shea.</p>
<p>Will Buckley makes his full debut in place of Adam Johnson who is ruled out through illness but Sunderland are otherwise unchanged from the team who drew 2-2 at West Brom last week.</p>
<p>Billy Jones is on the bench for the first time after recovering from a slight hamstring injury.</p>
<p><b>Sunderland (4-3-3): </b>Mannone; Vergini, O'Shea, Brown, van Aanholt; Larsson, Cattermole, Rodwell; Buckley, Fletcher, Wickham.</p>
<p><b>Subs: </b>Pantilimon, Roberge, Jones, Bridcutt, Gomez, Mavrias, Altidore.</p>
<p>Ander Herrera and Jesse Lingard miss out through injury for Manchester United but they are boosted by the return of Robin Van Persie who replaces Javier Hernandez up front.</p>
<p><b>Manchester United (3-4-1-2): </b>De Gea; Jones, Smalling, Blackett; Valencia, Fletcher, Cleverley, Young; Mata; Rooney, van Persie.</p>
<p><b>Subs: </b>Amos, Keane, James, Kagawa, Januzaj, Hernandez, Welbeck.</p>
https://rokerreport.sbnation.com/2014/8/24/6062293/sunderland-vs-manchester-united-confirmed-line-upsAndy Tomlinson2014-08-22T19:34:35+01:002014-08-22T19:34:35+01:00Preview: Sunderland Set For First Home Game
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<figcaption>Stu Forster</figcaption>
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<p>The first home game of the season is nearly upon us. The Sky cameras are in town, and so is the footballing demi-god that is Louis van Gaal.</p> <h4>Sunderland Team News</h4>
<p>Gus Poyet is likely to retain most of the side that started in the 2-2 draw against West Bromwich Albion last Saturday.</p>
<p>The one area that may see change is at right-back, where Billy Jones and Santiago Vergini are both pushing to start. Should either be selected, then Wes Brown is likely to revert to a central defensive position at Valentin Roberge's expense.</p>
<p>With Emanuele Giaccherini still sidelined, Connor Wickham is expected to retain his left-sided starting spot.</p>
<h4>Manchester United Team News</h4>
<p>New signing Marcos Rojo is not in contention with Louis van Gaal confirming that he is yet to receive a work permit. There could be recalls for Antonio Valencia, Danny Welbeck, Jonny Evans and Robin van Persie after the quartet returned to training on Thursday. Michael Carrick and Luke Shaw, however, are still some way from returning to first team action and Ander Herrera will miss out after picking up an ankle injury in training.</p>
<h4>Predicted Lineups</h4>
<p><a title="Click to view tactic" href="http://sharemytactics.com/20237/"><img alt="Sunderland vs Manchester United - Football tactics and formations" src="http://sharemytactics.com/20237/Sunderland-Manchester-United-formation-tactics.png"></a> <br id="1408732377831"></p>
<p><b>Sunderland: </b>Mannone; Vergini, Brown, O'Shea, van Aaholt; Cattermole; Johnson, Larsson, Rodwell, Wickham; Fletcher</p>
<p><b>Manchester United: </b>de Gea; Jones, Smalling, Evans; Valencia, Fletcher, Cleverley, Young; Mata; Hernandez, Rooney</p>
<h4>Key Matchup: Lee Cattermole vs Juan Mata</h4>
<p>A week on from his screamer at the Hawthorns, Cattermole's defensive prowess will need to be on display against one of the better attacking midfielders in the division.</p>
<p>Operating from the midfield base, Cattermole will not only be expected to stifle United attacks but also be the first port of generating them for his side. Nullifying the Spaniard would go some way to Sunderland attaining a foothold within the game.</p>
<h4>Recent Form: L</h4>
<p>Loss: Manchester United 1-2 Swansea City (Rooney 53; Ki 28, Sigurdsson 72)</p>
<h4>Last Time Around: Sunderland 1-2 Manchester United, 05/10/13</h4>
<p>The game that propelled Adnan Januzaj into the spotlight, the young would-be Belgian international scored twice within six second-half minutes to give David Moyes a much-needed win.</p>
<p>Craig Gardner had put the hosts in front after just five minutes, and Sunderland would then go on to waste a number of chances before half-time. After the interval, Januzaj's strikes swung the momentum of the tie, and United held on despite a desperate late surge from the home side.</p>
<h4>The Ref: Martin Atkinson</h4>
<p>The West Yorkshire man had a rather strained relationship with Sunderland fans last season. Of his four games that involved the Black Cats, his premature decision to call a foul and deny Jozy Altidore a goal against Arsenal proved crucial, before a late sending off for Wes Brown in their second meeting of the season.</p>
<p>Neither of the Manchester City games were heavily Atkinson-influenced, so hopefully Sunday's game passes without any controversy.</p>
<h4>What The Managers Said</h4>
<p>Gus Poyet</p>
<blockquote>
<p>We have a certain way of playing against the top teams that suits us very well.</p>
<p>The players who were here [last season] understood that and it's up to the new players to adapt to that game-plan.</p>
<p>They have a new manager and lost their first game but I am sure they will react.</p>
<p>It's difficult seeing a team like Manchester United losing two games in a row and we aren't quite sure what kind of system they will play which makes it difficult.</p>
<p>We need to be good and we need to be better than last week, especially on the ball, to have a chance to win the game.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Louis van Gaal</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Two weeks ago I was the king of Manchester. Now I am the devil.</p>
<p>I was not hired to be fired, but to build up a team, and that is a process that needs time.</p>
<p>That's the football world and especially the media in this football world. I think the fans of Manchester are intelligent.</p>
<p>I've already said that the first three months will be difficult for the players and the fans.</p>
</blockquote>
<h4>Roker Report Predicts</h4>
<p>That a similar encounter to last season's fixture may not be too far off. With it being our first home game of the season, I expect a fervent atmosphere that will spur Poyet's side into a good start. With United very much in transition - tactically and in personnel terms - the defensive fragility that Swansea seized upon last week will be present, but I suspect a score draw will be outcome. We'll go 1-1.</p>
https://rokerreport.sbnation.com/2014/8/22/6056589/preview-sunderland-manchester-united-premier-leagueKarlJones2014-08-21T20:38:20+01:002014-08-21T20:38:20+01:00Played For Both: SAFC and Manchester United
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<p><em>There have been many, many, many players that have played for both Sunderland and Manchester United over the years - far too many for me to regale in this piece. Alas, I've chosen three players at random <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RokerReport" target="new">based on suggestions made by you lot on our Facebook page.</a></em></p> <h3><b>Dwight Yorke</b></h3>
<p style="text-align: left;">Now I might be alone here but I bloody loved Dwight Yorke. His legs had gone and he was effectively brought out of semi-retirement when Roy Keane signed him from Sydney FC in 2006 but the one thing brilliant players never lose is their quality, and Dwight had plenty of it.</p>
<p>Although he was brought in to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://rokerreport.sbnation.com/">Sunderland</a> to play as a holding midfielder - think the Andrea Pirlo of the Coca Cola Championship - Dwight earned his corn as a centre forward for the vast majority of his career, playing well over two hundred games for <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/">Aston Villa</a> before his head was turned by <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/">Manchester United</a> in 1998 - a situation which still leaves a bitter taste in the mouths of Villa fans to this day.</p>
<p>Yorke's decision to leave was wise. He was the centre piece of a simply brilliant side that decimated almost everyone on their quest to win the much fabled 'treble' - that's a Premier League title, Champions League and an FA Cup all in one season - forming a formidable partnership with another player you might have forgotten once pulled on the red and white stripes, the 'outstanding' Andrew 'Andy' Cole (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M9UHcRrCWlI">any excuse to post this</a>), topping the Premier League scoring charts in the process. He finished the following season with twenty two goals, winning yet another Premier League title in convincing fashion.</p>
<p>He was shifted on to Blackburn Rovers in 2002 and latterly Birmingham City, where he played for one season before heading to Australia to play in the A-League for Sydney FC as their captain and central midfielder.</p>
<p>Yorke was an experienced head and a fine example of Keane using his connections in order to benefit our cause - he didn't play every minute of every game but having a wise owl amongst the ranks at a time where stability was needed in order to ensure we returned to the Premier League at the first time of asking was a brilliant move. One of the greatest individual performances I've ever seen at the Stadium of Light came from the Tobagan when he absolutely bossed Cesc Fabregas in a 1-1 draw at the Stadium of Light against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://theshortfuse.sbnation.com/">Arsenal</a> in 2008, earning the man of the match award and the respect of many Sunderland fans who weren't convinced that he offered us all that much anymore. If he'd been a wrestler the crowd would have been chanting "You've still got it" at him.</p>
<p>There are a couple of Dwight Yorke goals included in this video package from our 2006 Championship winning campaign.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Ei5iaUdLToE" frameborder="0"></iframe></p>
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<h3>Jimmy Nicholl</h3>
<p>Jimmy Nicholl, a Canadian born Northern Irish international, might not be a name that immediately comes to the mind of our younger fans and it might surprise some to know that he had two, albeit brief, spells as a Sunderland player in the early eighties.</p>
<p>A right back by trade, Nicholl played the majority of his career at Manchester United, coming through their youth side before making over two hundred appearances and taking his place in the winning FA Cup side of 1977. After spending eight years in the first team at Manchester United he lost his place in the side and was eventually loaned to Sunderland in 1982, playing five games before heading off to the 1982 World Cup to play as part of that famous Northern Irish side that managed to progress to the latter stages of the tournament. Upon his return from Spain he made his move to Sunderland permanent that summer, playing the entire 1982/1983 season as an integral part of Alan Durban's side.</p>
<p>Although I'm faaaaaaaar too young to have ever watched Nicholl play for the lads I am reliably informed that he was a fine player and was a massive miss when he left, moving abroad to play for Toronto Blizzards in the North American Soccer League where he played until the league and club dissolved in 1984. Some might say he's only just been replaced - not since those days have we had a curly headed right back. Thank the lord for <span>Billy Jones</span>.</p>
<p>I couldn't find any footage of Jimmy Nicholl at Sunderland but here's an absolute screamer that he scored for the Red Devils back in 1975.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/AZK--hfXpdw" height="315" width="420"></iframe></p>
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<h3>David Bellion</h3>
<p>In hindsight selling David Bellion to Manchester United was one of those rare occasions when a club manages to well and truly pull down Alex Ferguson's trousers. At the time, however, it wasn't viewed quite like that.</p>
<p>Spotted by Ricky Sbragia whilst playing for reserve side of AS Cannes, Bellion spurned offers from top French sides and Fulham in order to sign for Sunderland in 2001 aged just eighteen, spending a season aclimatising to English football before becoming a regular first team player in the side that was eventually relegated from the Premier League in 2003. Bellion's only goal for Sunderland came against Aston Villa at the Stadium of Light and it was that goal which propelled him to the forefront of Howard Wilkinson's mind, starting in the majority of games from October onwards without notching again.</p>
<p>Despite having to come into an ailing side under difficult circumstances, Alex Ferguson had seen enough of the young Frenchman to think he was worth signing. Bellion turned down a contract towards the end of the 2002/2003 season from Sunderland and it emerged that he had effectively been 'tapped up' by Manchester United, which resulted in us receiving between two and three million pounds for the player.</p>
<p>From then on, it was relatively downhill for Bellion, who had expected that his career might have taken a slightly more expressive and successful path. Throughout the duration of his time at Manchester United, Bellion was used sparingly and eventually was allowed to leave the club in 2007, signing for Ligue 1 side Bordeaux, who he left to join a third division side this summer after spending seven years at <i>Les Girondins</i> effectively as a backup player. Although it feels like ages since he was in a red and white shirt, Bellion is still only thirty-one years old.</p>
<p><a href="http://rokerreport.sbnation.com/2012/4/17/2935712/david-bellion-interview-sunderland-manchester-united-arsenal" target="_blank">Roker Report interviewed Bellion back in 2012 - you can read it here</a>. Below is footage of that solitary strike for Sunderland, a fine goal against Aston Villa.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/1MRo3TuieHA" height="315" width="420"></iframe></p>
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<p><b><i>C</i></b><b><i>an you think of any other players who have played for both? Leave your suggestions in the comments section below!</i></b></p>
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https://rokerreport.sbnation.com/2014/8/21/6053717/played-for-both-safc-and-manchester-unitedEditor Gav2014-08-21T08:00:02+01:002014-08-21T08:00:02+01:00Fan Focus: Manchester United (H)
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<figcaption>Shaun Botterill</figcaption>
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<p>The second game of the season throws up an intriguing clash between Sunderland and Manchester United at the Stadium of Light this weekend. So, I caught up with digital marketing whizz, keen blogger and lifelong United fan Stacey MacNaught to get her thoughts on the Red Devils' current position, while also looking ahead towards Sunday's match. Just to add even more spice to the fixture for Stacey, she's married to a Sunderland supporter!</p> <p><span> </span></p>
<p><span> </span></p>
<p style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b><span>After so many years of success, did you ever think you'd witness a season like the last one under David Moyes and do you feel his reign was doomed from the beginning? </span></b></p>
<p><b>Stacey: </b><i>I always knew there’d be a difficult period after Sir Alex retired. Whoever took the reigns, he would have been inheriting a squad that just wasn’t good enough. I’ve got to be honest, though, I didn’t expect a collapse of the scale we endured last season.</i></p>
<p><b>So, Louis van Gaal is the new man at the helm. Do you believe that he'll restore the club to former glories?</b></p>
<p><b>Stacey: </b><i>I like him. I was a bit confused last weekend, mind. In his pre-match interviews he talked about all the emphasis and time that’s gone into technical and tactical training for the new formation – then he abandoned it at half-time and reverted to four at the back. Bit confusing and I’m sure there’s not a club in the league who’d want to see Ashley Young playing at left-back.</i></p>
<p><i>If he sticks around a few years, I think he’s a manager who can build something promising for us.</i></p>
<p><b>Rooney as captain - good choice?</b></p>
<p><b>Stacey: </b><i>The jury’s out for me on this one. I know van Gaal suggested he wanted someone ‘steady’, but let’s not forget this is a lad that’s handed in a transfer request twice. Can we ever consider him steady? That said, he’s a brilliant leader on the pitch and you always want a captain who gives it 100%. He does that. I’ll reserve judgement on that call for a few weeks.</i></p>
<p><b>How do you rate the club's transfer business so far and do you require more additions?</b></p>
<p><b>Stacey: </b><i>I’m over the moon with Herrera and I’m pretty pleased about Luke Shaw. We've just confirmed the signing of </i><i>Marcos Rojo too, which should help to alleviate our defensive woes to some degree, though I still think we need an absolutely world-class defender. We could do with a top-level attacking midfielder as well, though it’s going to be harder to attract those players without European football.</i></p>
<p><b>We've had the pleasure of both Danny Welbeck and Jonny Evans featuring on loan for Sunderland in the past, but neither seems to be pulling up any trees at the moment. How do you rate the pair and is there a chance we could see them playing from the start on Sunday?</b></p>
<p><b>Stacey: </b><i>Welbeck is a really frustrating player for me. He was brilliant out on loan but just never sets the world alight these days. It’s infuriating because, for some reason, I believe he’s got something.</i></p>
<p><i>Jonny Evans is generally reliable and he’s experienced our winning mentality and been a part of some of our most successful seasons. I think, particularly if we fail to sign another defender this month, we’re going to be incredibly reliant on him.</i></p>
<p><i>I don’t think we’ll see Welbeck starting at the weekend, but Evans is a contender, for sure.</i></p>
<p><b>Now, our usual central defensive partnership comprises of experienced duo John O'Shea and Wes Brown, both of whom made the switch from Old Trafford in 2011. How do you think they'll cope with your forward line?</b></p>
<p><b>Stacey: </b><i>I think Rooney and Hernandez, assuming they start up-front, will be a handful for Wes Brown and John O’Shea, but only if they’re getting the service they need from midfield.</i></p>
<p><i>I would be absolutely buzzing to see Robin van Persie make an appearance, even if only a short stint!</i></p>
<p><b>What are your realistic expectations for the upcoming campaign?</b></p>
<p><b>Stacey: </b><i>I’ll be happy if we finish in the top-four, and without European football to contend with (sulk!), I think that’s realistic. God, I hope that’s realistic!</i></p>
<p><b>With Sunday's clash in mind, who do you envisage causing most problems for Sunderland?</b></p>
<p><b>Stacey: </b><i>Juan Mata. I’m hoping to see him in the line-up and I think he’s going to come really good this season!</i></p>
<p><b>Are there any Sunderland players in particular that worry you going into the game?</b></p>
<p><b>Stacey: </b><i>Seb Larsson. He scored against West Brom at the weekend and he also scored the goal that saw Sunderland beat us at Old Trafford (coincidentally on the day I married a Sunderland fan!) last May. He’s a great player.</i></p>
<p><b>What's it like in your household when Sunderland and Manchester United meet?!</b></p>
<p><b>Stacey:</b> <i>Typically, it ends in my husband sulking. But that wasn’t the case last season! The last time the two teams met was on our wedding day and that ended better for him than for me.</i></p>
<p><i>It’s always a tense fixture in our household. There’s marital pride at stake, not just points! With us both living in Manchester, we usually spend the Old Trafford fixtures at the opposite ends of the stadium and catch up afterwards. I reckon I’m a bit more gracious in defeat than he is.</i></p>
<p><b>And finally, can we have a score prediction? Goalscorers?</b></p>
<p><b>Stacey: </b><i>Do you know what, I’m going to put my optimistic hat on. United for the win 2-1 - Juan Mata and Rooney scoring for us and Larsson for Sunderland. Stick a fiver on that!</i></p>
<p><i><b>Be sure to follow Stacey on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/staceycav">@staceycav</a></b></i></p>
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https://rokerreport.sbnation.com/2014/8/21/6044041/fan-focus-manchester-united-h-a-household-split-in-twoDavid Lee Wheatley