Premier League preview: Sunderland v Blackburn

Martin O’Neill will take charge of Sunderland for the first time in a meeting with Blackburn Rovers on Sunday.

The former Celtic and Aston Villa manager was named as Steve Bruce’s successor on Saturday, but assistant manager Eric Black was left at the helm as Sunderland suffered a 2-1 loss at Wolves a day later.

Northern Irishman O’Neill faces the big task of changing Sunderland’s fortunes, beginning with the home clash with Rovers.

Not only are Sunderland winless in their last five outings, they have won only twice in their last 15 Premier League matches at the Stadium of Light.

A loss to Steve Kean’s Rovers, who overcame Swansea City 4-2 in their last outing, will see Sunderland drop into the relegation zone.

Inspired by Yakubu’s four goals, Rovers registered their second win of the campaign with the victory at Ewood Park.

The former Everton striker has been a rare shining light for Blackburn, netting seven league goals.

Blackburn fans have continued to protest Kean’s position, leading to Yakubu calling on them to begin supporting the under-fire manager.

While Sunderland have been less than impressive at home, Rovers have struggled on the road – winless in seven trips this season.

O’Neill is without goalkeepers Craig Gordon and Simon Mignolet because of injury, while strikers Fraizer Campbell and Connor Wickham are also missing.

Sunderland will be hopeful Dane striker Nicklas Bendtner, on loan from Arsenal, can find his scoring touch, having not netted for the club since the 2-0 win over Bolton on October 22.

Midfielder Sebastian Larsson has been a constant threat, and he will be eager to get on the scoresheet after missing a penalty in the loss to Wolves.

Meanwhile, Blackburn could be boosted by the return of captain Ryan Nelsen to the centre of defence, although he may be absent for at least another week because of a knee injury.

Venky’s, Blackburn’s owners, are set to provide Kean with the opportunity to spend in January.

If the Scot can continue grinding out results he may be safe until he can strengthen his squad in the transfer window.

The test against Sunderland is followed by winnable games against West Bromwich Albion and Bolton as Rovers aim to move out of the relegation zone.

O’Neill will be keen to start in winning fashion, and a clash with Rovers provides him with that opportunity.