Chris Sutton issues apology to Sunderland fans in latest Premier League prediction

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Chris Sutton has responded directly to criticism from Sunderland fans in his latest round of Premier League predictions.

The Black Cats endured a turbulent international break with several first-team stars performing for their respective countries.

Noah Sadiki and Omar Alderete suffered injury scares, but Regis Le Bris revealed in his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s clash against Wolves that the pair appear unscathed.

Now, Sutton has shared his scoreline prediction for the clash at the Stadium of Light while addressing recent concerns from the supporters.

Chris Sutton addresses criticism from Sunderland supporters

When offering his latest Premier League predictions for BBC Sport, Sutton apologised to Sunderland fans for his negative outlook on the side this season.

“Firstly, huge apologies to Sunderland fans. After all the stick I got from them for being so negative about them this season, I knew that as soon as I backed them to win a game, the wheels would come off – and that’s exactly what happened against Manchester United.

“It just shows that they are better off with me writing their team off, so they should probably welcome my prediction for this game.

“This week, they are at home to Wolves, who are bottom of the table without a win, but the Black Cats have picked up a few injuries, and their squad strength is a little bit of a concern.

“United deserved to beat them before the international break – and it’s not often you say that about United, is it? – but I was impressed by Regis Le Bris because he did not make any excuses afterwards.

“Sunderland need to get back on track, but I don’t think they will find it straightforward against a Wolves side who have drawn their last two games. There is not going to be a lot in this, and even I can’t pick a winner.”

While the pundit predicted a 1-1 draw on Saturday, he had expected a win at Old Trafford last time, and of course, United recorded a 2-0 victory against Sunderland.

However, Le Bris has guided his side seven points clear of the relegation zone as the Black Cats’ summer signings have dazzled, and the Frenchman could open a 12-point gap to bottom-of-the-table Wolves at the Stadium of Light.

Jermain Defoe urged Le Bris to lean on the supporters and to make the home stadium a fortress once again in the Premier League. Their home form has been pivotal in their success thus far, as they remain unbeaten on Wearside.

Regis Le Bris is relying on the Sunderland support

Supporters of any club will admit that Sunderland boast one of the most passionate fan bases in English football.

As seen with their impressive record against top-level opposition at the Stadium of Light this season, picking up points in the North East could be the difference between survival and immediate relegation to the Championship.

And Le Bris has addressed his side’s form at home this season and believes the supporters will instill extra confidence in his players on Saturday.

“Yeah, it’s obvious that if you can feed this dynamic at home with confidence with this extra drive from the crowd and the community, it’s still better. Because away, usually, it’s more difficult to win points.

“So far the form is positive and I hope it will be the case this weekend.”