After last week’s dramatic return, the Premier League’s action continues as **Burnley**welcome Sunderland to Turf Moor in a clash between two teams who are making their return to England’s top division.
With each of the last six newly promoted sides suffering an immediate return to the second tier, this game represents an opportunity for both teams to collect some pivotal points at the expense of their rivals.
Burnley will be hoping to get off the mark after they received a warm welcome to the Premier League from Tottenham, who dispatched them 3-0 at home on the opening day of the season.
Meanwhile, Sunderland had a much more enjoyable start to life in the topflight, as the Black Cat’s thrashed West Ham United 3-0 in front of a raucous Stadium of Light to get their campaign up and running.
Momentum is difficult to establish in the Premier League, and even though the season has just started, both teams will know the significance of this game for their hopes of survival.
Team News
Burnley
After losing the opening game in such a convincing manner, Scott Parker may look to change his side in a bid to put some points on the board.
However, Parker may be unable to make as many alterations as he would like, as he is suffering from a lack of options in defence. Centre-backs Axel Tuanzebe, Jordan Beyer and Bashir Humphreys are all set to miss this game, while Wales international Connor Roberts faces a race to be fit in time.
If deemed fit after his arrival, Armando Broja may start up front, while Marcus Edwards may be integrated into Burnley’s attack to add some firepower from wide areas.
Sunderland
Having comfortably defeated West Ham in their opening day duel, Regis Le Bris may opt against making a vast number of changes as he bids to allow his side to establish a rhythm.
However, one change that may be enforced is the absence of centre back Jenson Seelt, who was forced off with an injury in that clash on what was his first start since March last year.
He was replaced by Omar Alderete, and the debutant played a crucial role in unlocking the Irons defence, and that may have been enough to earn himself a first start for his new side.
Meanwhile, new signing Arthur Masuaku is still expected to be absent as he returns to fitness, while established stars Denis Cirkin, Luke O’Nien and Romaine Mundle all continue to suffer from the ailments which kept them out of the opening day of the season.
Likely Lineups
Burnley
Dubravka; Hartman, Esteve, Ekdal, Walker, Sonne; Anthony, Cullen, Ugochuku, Bruun Larsen; Foster
Sunderland
Roefs; Reinildo, Alderete, Ballard, Hume; Sadiki, Xhaka, Diarra; Adingra, Mayenda, Talbi
Key Players
Burnley: Josh Cullen
If Burnley are to survive in the Premier League this season, then captain Josh Cullen will play an integral part in the engine room of their midfield.
The Irish international covered the most distance of any player in their opening day defeat, and his work rate will provide energy which will be essential if the Claret’s are to trouble Sunderland in this encounter.
Beyond his running, Cullen also has the technical attributes to cause problems to the Sunderland defence. He completed 2464 passes last season, one of the highest figures in the Championship, and this passing stability allows him to get Burnley’s more creative players on the ball and making chances.
If Cullen can continue to shine in the Premier League, then he will be critical to his teams’ hopes of earning their first points of the season.
Sunderland: Dan Ballard
Despite making 12 signings so far this summer, Dan Ballard appears poised to play a pivotal role at the heart of Sunderland’s quest to remain in the Premier League.
The 25-year-old centre-back scored a dramatic injury time winner to knock Coventry City out in the Championship playoff semi-final last season, and he has already shown his goalscoring prowess in the Premier League as he doubled Sunderland’s advantage on the opening day of the season.
Having been with Sunderland since 2022, his experience with the club will be vital for integrating new signings, while his defensive contributions will be crucial if the Black Cats are to keep Burnley at bay in this encounter.
Match Details
Where is the game being played? This fixture will take place at Turf Moor
What time is kick-off? The match will be played at 15:00 GMT on Saturday 23rd August
How can I watch? The game is not being broadcast live in the UK due to the 3pm blackout restrictions, although highlights will be available after the game