Sunderland vs Manchester United preview: Louis van Gaal hopes to maintain improving form at Stadium of Light

A look ahead to the Premier League fixture at the Stadium of Light

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal (Getty Images)

It’s a big game for…

Jermaine Defoe

Having scored six goals in seven appearances, Defoe looks natural in front of goal. With this week’s dismissal of Adam Johnson, after the 28-year-old pled guilty to child sex charges, Defoe’s presence in attack becomes even more important. If the 33-year-old can disrupt Manchester United’s defence and cause enough problems, there is potential to compensate for a defence in need of improvement.

Best stat…

13: Manchester United are unbeaten in their last 13 visits to the Stadium of Light. Sunderland’s defence shows signs of fragility against Tottenham and Arsenal, to whom they lost 4-1 and 3-1 respectively. Having also lost to Manchester City, Sunderland seem shaky going up against the reds.

Remember when…

Lingard scored a stunning goal against Chelsea on February 7. Lingard’s surprisingly clinical finish, given the speed of his twist and the power behind his shot, impressed the travelling fans at Stamford Bridge.

Player to watch…

Jesse Lingard

Having scored the opener after just 14 minutes against Stoke, and hit the back of the net again in United’s recent clash with Chelsea, Lingard is on fine scoring form. United boss van Gaal praised the English winger’s ability and encouraged him not to let up. If Lingard can reproduce his sublime goal at Chelsea, he could earn even more favour with the under-fire manager.

Past three-meetings…

Manchester United 3 (Depay, Rooney, Mata) Sunderland 0
Premier League, September 2015.

Manchester United 2 (Rooney 2) Sunderland 0
Premier League, February 2015.

Sunderland 1 (Rodwell) Manchester United 1 (Mata)
Premier League, August 2014.

Form guide…

Sunderland: LWLDLD

Manchester United: DWLWWD

Vital information…

KICK-OFF TIME: 12.45pm

TV: Live on BT Sport1, highlights on BBC1