Adrian Durham has hit out at Sunderland’s performance in their 3–0 defeat to Manchester City, insisting the manner of the loss should force some serious reflection inside the club.
The talkSPORT presenter didn’t take issue with the result itself – acknowledging City’s quality – but said Sunderland’s display at the Etihad was well below the standards they have set this season. Régis Le Bris’ side conceded twice in quick succession before Phil Foden wrapped up the win late on, while Luke O’Nien’s red card only deepened the frustration. The defender will now miss Sunday’s Wear–Tyne derby.
Despite the setback, Sunderland remain in an excellent position, sitting 8th in the Premier League and just three points off the Champions League spots after an impressive opening half of the campaign.
Speaking on talkSPORT (6 December, 17:21), Durham said: “Sunderland were poor. Luke O’Nien gets himself sent off for a stupid, horrible foul just after coming on, so he’s out for the derby. They were really bad. There’s no shame in losing at City, but there’s a bit of shame in losing the way they did.”
The focus now shifts to Newcastle, with the derby arriving at a pivotal moment in Sunderland’s season.
Le Bris provides injury updates ahead of derby
Régis Le Bris confirmed midfielder Habib Diarra is unlikely to be available for the clash with Newcastle, admitting the timing will come “too soon” as the 21-year-old continues his comeback from groin surgery. Diarra had been pushing to return in time for the derby, but Le Bris believes he won’t make it.
The head coach did offer better news regarding Reinildo, who missed the trip to Manchester with a groin problem but is expected to be fit for Sunday.
“For Rei, it could be okay, but for Habib it would be too short, I think,” said Le Bris.
Sunderland will also have Granit Xhaka and Noah Sadiki available after both avoided yellow cards that would have triggered suspensions. Le Bris substituted the pair late on at the Etihad, bringing on Romaine Mundle and Simon Adingra to preserve their availability.
He also explained why Dan Neil remained on the bench, revealing he chose to push Lutsharel Geertruida into midfield in an effort to maintain attacking intent.
“We tried to stay in the game, to provoke something,” he said. “With offensive players wide, that was the idea. It didn’t work, but we tried.”
Sunderland now turn their attention fully to Sunday’s derby – a chance to respond immediately after a disappointing night in Manchester.