Published Feb 9, 4:05am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Feb 9, 4:05am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Feb 9, 4:05am ET
The pressure continues to increase on Arne Slot, and this week’s trip to Sunderland is likely to be considered a must-win encounter for his Liverpool side.
Liverpool’s title defense has been nothing short of a disaster, with Sunday’s 2-1 home defeat against Man City seeing them remain sixth, and they are now four points adrift of the top five.
Sunderland continue to make positive headlines on their return to the Premier League, despite a defeat on the road against Arsenal last time out.
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|---|---|
| Sunderland | +379 |
| The Draw | +295 |
| Liverpool | -135 |
It has been a dream return to the top-flight for Sunderland, as they sit ninth in the Premier League standings after 25 rounds of matches.
The Black Cats could move level on points with the defending champions on Wednesday if they claim a home win. However, a return to form will be required following a defeat at Arsenal on Saturday. But, it is worth noting that Sunderland’s best performances in 2025-26 have come in home fixtures.
The Black Cats have avoided defeat in 12 at the Stadium of Light, winning on seven occasions and scoring in 92% of their fixtures. Incredibly, Sunderland have also won three of their last five home matches against defending champions in the Premier League.
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The problems continue to increase for Arne Slot at Anfield. Liverpool suffered a damaging 2-1 home defeat against Man City on Sunday, despite leading 1-0 after 80 minutes.
A key moment came in the closing stages, as Dominic Szoboszlai was sent off, meaning the team’s best player this season will be unavailable on Wednesday. Liverpool have avoided defeat in their last 19 Premier League fixtures against newly promoted sides, but they have played out draws in each of the last four.
It is also worth considering that the Reds have won just two of their last ten on the road, conceding an incredible 21 goals away from Anfield in 2025-26, meaning only Wolves have allowed more.
| TOTAL | Sunderland | Liverpool | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Games | 33 | 3 | 18 | 12 |
| Goals | 66 | 19 | 47 |
Based on the defensive issues endured by Liverpool on the road this season, and key absences, the price available for a Sunderland win is too big to ignore on Wednesday. The Black Cats have been excellent at the Stadium of Light throughout this season, avoiding defeat in 12, and they have already taken creditable results against both Arsenal and Man City.
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Pick
Sunderland
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