“Pundits Clash Over ‘Huge’ Premier League Showdown – Who’s Backing Sunderland to Shock Burnley? “Merson, Sutton, and McCoist Can’t Agree – Bold Predictions Ahead of Sunderland’s Crucial Burnley Trip!

Sunderland Travel to Burnley: Merson and Sutton Predict Tough Afternoon for Black Cats

Sunderland head to Turf Moor this Saturday afternoon to take on Burnley in Premier League action — but football pundits Paul Merson and Chris Sutton both believe the Black Cats will fall short of securing a win.

Regis Le Bris’ side made a stunning return to the top flight last weekend, cruising to a 3-0 victory over West Ham at the Stadium of Light and briefly topping the Premier League table after eight years away from the division.

Burnley, in contrast, suffered a 3-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur and currently sit in the relegation zone. The Clarets will be keen to bounce back and draw level on points with Sunderland with a home win.

While Merson and Sutton differ on the exact scoreline, both are tipping Burnley to take something from the match.

What did Paul Merson and Chris Sutton say ahead of Burnley vs Sunderland?

In his preview for Sportskeeda, Paul Merson predicted a narrow 1-0 win for the hosts, saying:

“This is a huge game. Burnley simply can’t afford to drop more points. Sunderland were impressive against West Ham, and I wasn’t sure they’d gel so quickly given the number of new signings, but the team spirit looks strong. That said, I don’t see them backing it up with another win here. I think Burnley edge it and join Sunderland and Leeds on points.”

Chris Sutton, writing for BBC Sport, foresees a more balanced contest, opting for a 1-1 draw between the newly promoted clubs.

“I’d counted Sunderland out at the end of last season, but they proved me wrong with that brilliant win over West Ham. Those headers from Mayenda and Ballard were top-class. Burnley showed glimpses against Spurs but didn’t make the most of them. This one feels like a draw — a tight game, Burnley may want more, but Sunderland will be happy with the point.”

McCoist Offers More Hope for Sunderland

Not all predictions are against the Black Cats, however. Former Sunderland striker Ally McCoist offered a more optimistic outlook, telling TNT Sports he believes his old club will keep their perfect start alive with a 2-1 away win at Turf Moor.