TRAI Hume emphasizes that Sunderland will not undervalue Rotherham, highlighting last season’s loss at the New York Stadium as proof of the formidable task ahead for the Black Cats tonight.
Sitting at the bottom of the Championship, the Millers, despite their challenging position, enter the match against Sunderland at 7:45 pm with a morale-boosting Boxing Day victory over Middlesbrough. This win, the first under new manager Leam Richardson, comes as they have faced defeat in four out of their 12 home games this season.
Reflecting on last February, Sunderland approached the New York Stadium riding an impressive eight-game unbeaten away streak and actively contending for promotion. However, they suffered a setback with a 2-1 loss to Rotherham, who, although not in their current position at the table’s bottom, were still grappling with challenges and fighting for survival.
Sunderland experienced a morale boost with an impressive victory at Hull in their last outing under new manager Michael Beale. However, Hume emphasizes that the Black Cats are fully cognizant of the potential challenges and risks associated with tonight’s match.
“Rotherham are a difficult team to play,” said the full-back. “They’re direct, they play off second balls, we lost there last year, they’re a good side, it’s a fortress for them so we’ll have to go and be organised and try and get the three points.”
Hume expressed a sense of misfortune for Sunderland in their recent loss to Coventry, marking a challenging start to Beale’s tenure. He acknowledged that the Black Cats faced the consequences they deserved in that match. Hume explained that despite creating numerous opportunities, they were unable to convert them into goals. Post-game discussions highlighted the team’s shortcomings in both offensive and defensive aspects. The subsequent response, with a goal, a clean sheet, and a win at Hull, was seen as a well-deserved recovery.
“We reflected after that Coventry game, we did a few things wrong but also did things right. Hull are a good side, they play good football so we had to be more organised and sit deeper and we did that well.”
Jenson Seelt is expected to maintain his spot in the Sunderland defense tonight, having delivered a commendable performance at Hull in the absence of Niall Huggins. Unfortunately, Huggins has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a significant knee injury that requires surgery.
In the attacking department, manager Beale faces a decision following Bradley Dack’s early departure in the first half at Hull due to a hamstring issue. Dack, who started the game up front, was replaced by Adil Aouchiche. Beale had initially positioned Abdoullah Ba as the central frontman in his debut against Coventry. Another option for tonight’s match is Alex Pritchard.
It’s noteworthy that none of Sunderland’s recognized strikers have started a game since Tony Mowbray’s departure, making the acquisition of a new center-forward a priority for the Black Cats in the upcoming transfer window.
Rotherham’s manager Richardson is urging the home fans to play a significant role tonight as the Millers aim to build on their recent victory over Boro. The Boxing Day success marked the end of a 10-game winless streak for Rotherham.
Speaking about the upcoming game, Richardson acknowledged its challenging nature, emphasizing the competitiveness and the strength of the opponent, which boasts a talented squad of young players and is currently in a favorable position in the league.
“If we replicate the same level of performance and dedication that we showed against Middlesbrough, we’ll be in a competitive position. The crowd’s role is crucial. We understand its significance; the players rely on that energy. If there’s a run to be made, the crowd’s support will drive them forward.”
Rotherham will continue to miss defenders Grant Hall and Lee Peltier, along with winger Fred Onyedinma.
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