Sunderland face Leeds as contrasting Premier League starts are tested

Sunderland host Leeds at the Stadium of Light, with both clubs having avoided relegation comfortably after returning to the Premier League last season. Leeds have carried that form into 2026-27, while Sunderland are bottom after a slow league start, making the match an early test of their top-flight campaigns.

Sunderland have taken four points from their first seven league games, though three were against the current top three. Their strong start in the Europa League may also have affected their domestic results. This is only the sides’ third Premier League meeting since 2002, reflecting their struggles to remain in the top flight.