Sunderland will hope to improve their form in upcoming games against Manchester United, Everton and Chelsea.
Sunderland have been lauded for their hard work, discipline and organisation throughout a season that has surpassed all expectations.
With just three games remaining in campaign, Regis Le Bris’ side are on the fringes of the European race - although Saturday’s draw with already relegated Wolverhampton Wanderers means the Black Cats are now viewed as outsiders for a top eight spot as they prepare for home clashes with Manchester United and Chelsea and an away day at Everton.
Sunderland are now likely to be relying on slips from those above them in the table if they are to qualify for Europe for the second time in their history - but there is also a need for the Black Cats to find their ruthless side at the top end of the pitch if they are to give themselves a chance of rounding off a remarkable season in fine fashion.
With the likes of Brian Brobbey, Enzo Le Fee and Chemsdine Talbi all providing threat and creativity in attacking areas, Sunderland do possess players that can cause major issues for opposition defences. However, the Black Cats are struggling to create quality chances according to one key statistic that has become increasingly prominent in the game in recent seasons.
Expected goals (xG) has become a valuable reference point to judge the quality of attacking play and chances created and a Premier League table based on average xG across the season shows that Le Bris and his players do have some room for improvement in the final third during the final three weeks of the season.
Premier League average xG table
placeholder image
AFP via Getty Images
Manchester City - 1.79
Manchester United - 1.74
Liverpool - 1.73
Arsenal 1.70
AFC Bournemouth - 1.58
Chelsea - 1.57
Newcastle United - 1.54
Brighton and Hove Albion - 1.52
Aston Villa - 1.45
Nottingham Forest - 1.45
Leeds United - 1.42
Fulham - 1.38
Tottenham Hotspur - 1.32
Crystal Palace - 1.30
Everton - 1.30
Brentford - 1.30
West Ham United - 1.20
Sunderland - 1.20
Wolverhampton Wanderers - 1.13
Burnley - 1.07
Continue Reading