Preview: Sunderland vs. Liverpool

Sunderland and Liverpool will both be looking to register their first win of the new Premier League season when they meet in Saturday's late kickoff.

The Reds have won just once in their previous three trips to the Stadium of Light, including the infamous goal scored by a beach ball that obstructed Pepe Reina's goalmouth.

Brendan Rodgers will be without Lucas Leiva, Jose Enrique and Martin Kelly for the journey to the North-East, while Joe Cole is also struggling with a hamstring strain.

Jordan Henderson may have to be content with a spot on the bench as he returns to the club where he started his professional career.

Steven Fletcher struck two goals on his debut for the Black Cats in a 2-2 draw at Swansea City before the international break.

He should continue in attack, supported from midfield by Stephane Sessegnon. However, Adam Johnson is struggling with a thigh strain and may only be fit for a place on the bench.

Danny Rose could make his debut as Phil Bardsley battles an ankle injury. Wes Brown could return in the heart of Sunderland's defence, while Jack Colback could be moved into midfield in place of Lee Cattermole, who has a dead leg.

Current form:

Sunderland: DD
Liverpool: LDL

Possible lineups:

Sunderland: Mignolet; Rose, Brown, O'Shea, Cuellar; Colback, Larsson, Gardner, McClean, Sessegnon; Fletcher

Liverpool: Reina; Johnson, Skrtel, Agger, Carragher; Allen, Sahin, Gerrard, Downing; Borini, Suarez

Sports Mole says: 1-1

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