West Ham United is grappling with the unenviable title of having the most porous defense in the English Premier League this season. The Hammers have conceded a staggering 44 goals, with 12 of those coming from headers. This is surprising given their tall defensive lineup, featuring center-backs Max Kilman at 6ft 4in, Jean-Clair Todibo at 6ft 3in, and Konstantinos Mavropanos at 6ft 4in.
In contrast, Callum Wilson, the club’s wantaway striker, turned in a standout performance last Saturday, effectively influencing the West Ham hierarchy to reconsider his impending departure. Wilson now seems poised to remain with the team through the end of the season, despite the recent additions of forwards Pablo Felipe and Taty Castellanos.
West Ham’s historical home record against newly promoted teams offers them a glimmer of hope, having lost only once in their last 21 meetings. However, they will need to tread cautiously against Sunderland, who made a significant impression earlier this season by dismantling the Hammers with a 3-0 victory at the Stadium of Light on the opening day.
Sunderland’s impressive form continues to shine, as they aim to replicate their August victory with another win over West Ham in east London. Achieving this would mark only their second Premier League double over the Hammers, a feat last accomplished during the 2010-11 season when West Ham faced relegation.
Currently sitting ninth in the league, Sunderland remains unbeaten at home, a record only matched by league leaders Arsenal. They have also displayed resilience in their recent eight matches, losing just once across all competitions.
The team’s fortitude is evident in their ability to stage comebacks; they have earned 16 points from losing positions this season, second only to Aston Villa. With 33 points from 22 matches, Sunderland has become the best-performing promoted side in 16 years, surpassing the record set by Birmingham City in the 2009-10 season.
A key contributor to Sunderland’s success is Granit Xhaka, who has emerged as a vital asset following some astute summer signings. The Swiss captain, at 33, has logged the most minutes of any outfield player in the Sunderland squad. Xhaka’s influence extends beyond midfield strategy; he has made eight line-breaking passes leading to goals this season, more than any other player in the league.
Overall, both clubs are navigating a season filled with ups and downs, but Sunderland’s resilience and strategic play suggest a hopeful trajectory, while West Ham will need to reevaluate its defensive tactics moving forward.