Kick-off time, TV details, referee appointment and the latest Sunderland injury news ahead of the Premier League clash at the Vitality Stadium
Sunderland return to Premier League action on Saturday with a crucial early kick-off away to Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.
With the race for European football tightening and just a handful of points separating a cluster of mid-table sides, this fixture could prove pivotal for both teams. Bournemouth head into the contest eighth in the table and unbeaten in seven Premier League matches, a run stretching back to January. European qualification is now a genuine possibility for the south coast side.
Sunderland, meanwhile, sit 12th but are only two points behind their hosts. However, Régis Le Bris’ side have endured a dip in form after a strong start to life back in the top flight, losing four of their last five league matches. Victory for either side would significantly strengthen their European hopes in what has become one of the tightest mid-table battles in recent Premier League seasons.
When is Bournemouth vs Sunderland?
The match takes place on Saturday, February 28 at the Vitality Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 12.30pm UK time.
How to watch Bournemouth vs Sunderland
The game will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1, with coverage beginning at 11.00am. Supporters can also stream the match via discovery+. TNT Sports is available through major providers including Sky, Virgin Media, BT and EE.
Referee and VAR details
The match will be officiated by Jarred Gillett
Assistants: Neil Davies and Steve Meredith
Fourth official: Matt Donohue
VAR: James Bell
Assistant VAR: Craig Taylor
Sunderland injury latest
Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris could be without several players after what he described as a “tough day” during the 3-1 defeat to Fulham.
Dennis Cirkin was already ruled out of that game with what Le Bris labelled a minor issue, while Reinildo remains sidelined for around a month with a knee injury. During the first half against Fulham, Nordi Mukiele and Jocelin Ta Bi were both forced off after picking up knocks, with Mukiele initially attempting to continue.
There were further concerns over Brian Brobbey and Romaine Mundle. Brobbey went down shortly before being substituted, while Mundle left the pitch with the physio at full-time. “It’s a bit early to say, so we had Nordi, Jocelin, Brian, maybe Romaine as well, so it was a tough day,” Le Bris said. Dennis also missed the game with an injury, so at the minute it’s a tough period, but it is what it is, we have to accept it and move forward.”
Reflecting on the Fulham defeat, Le Bris admitted key moments proved decisive. “A tough day because it’s a defeat at home, key moments defined this game,” he said “We had the opportunity during the second half to score, and just after, they scored twice on set pieces.
The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join ourSAFC WhatsApp channel.
“Probably our first half wasn’t controlled enough; we struggled to find the right rhythm. We got two injuries, which didn’t help. But we were probably a bit sloppy, lacked quality with the ball, and we didn’t control this part of the game properly. I think the reaction at the beginning of the second half was good, but it was a reaction.
“And after that, just key moments, like in the Premier League. We had a strong opponent; they had the quality to score when it’s on. We felt the quality in the first half, but didn’t express it really. So the intention, the lads were positive about their intentions, but we struggled to find the right way to express it. Key moments [define the game], it’s really clear. He was disappointed, like the squad, I think, and us in general. It is what it is; we have to accept it and move forward.”
Le Bris is expected to provide further clarity on availability ahead of the trip to the south coast.
Continue Reading