Top 5: Premier League relegation contenders

Sunderland – 19th

Another side who have resorted to replacing their manager in order to turn things around, Sunderland have hired the experienced Sam Allardyce to stop them shipping goals. Having conceded 26 so far this season, the highest in the league, their defence is the main reason why they find themselves in the bottom three. A fairly strong squad going forward, with Jermain Defoe, Jeremain Lens and Fabio Borini, if they were to sort the back four out Sunderland should be safe.

John O’Shea

Key man: John O’Shea

At the heart of a leaky back four, O’Shea has been heavily criticised for his contribution in Sunderland’s shaky start to the season, which has seen them pick up just one win. Their captain needs to give confidence to his team-mates if they are to tighten up their defence, and use all of his experience to help get the Black Cats back on track.

Premier League so far:
Games: 12
Won: 1
Drawn: 3
Lost: 8
Goals for: 13
Goals against: 26
Top Scorer: Steven Fletcher (4)

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