Three things Sunderland fans should know about Stoke City before Championship match include key players and recent form

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Sunderland will look to end their six-game winless run on Saturday when Stoke City visit the Stadium of Light.

Regis Le Bris’ side started the 2024/25 season in amazing form but it’s safe to say they’ve lost their way in recent weeks.

The Black Cats’ biggest concern has been a lack of goals, scoring just once in their last three Championship fixtures.

It only takes one win to turn things around, and Sunderland’s players are more than capable, but they must not overlook their opponents.

Here’s everything you need to know about Stoke City before this weekend’s game.

• READ MORE: Sunderland expert predicts whether Patrick Roberts will start vs Stoke as fans want him benched

What Sunderland fans should know about Stoke City

1. Narcis Pelach’s tactics

Stoke appointed 36-year-old Narcis Pelach in September as the replacement for Steven Schumacher. Pelach joined from Norwich City, where he was a first-team coach.

Stoke have often played in a 4-2-3-1 formation under the Spaniard but he opted for a 5-3-2 last week against Burnley.

Whether they set up in the same shape on Saturday against the Black Cats remains to be seen, giving Le Bris plenty to think about.

2. Who are Stoke City’s best players?

Stoke’s top goalscorer this season is Tom Cannon, who is on loan from Premier League club Leicester City. He has found the back of the net eight times in all competitions.

But the Potters’ best player this campaign has undoubtedly been goalkeeper Viktor Johansson, which arguably says a lot about their struggles.

South Korean playmaker Bae Jun-ho has also been in fine form, providing five league assists, and is definitely one for Sunderland’s defenders to watch.

3. Stoke City’s recent form

Sunderland won’t be the only team at the Stadium of Light looking to end a winless run. Stoke have gone four games without picking up all three points.

On one hand, this suggests that it’s a perfect opportunity for Le Bris’ men to get back to winning ways. On the contrary, their opposition will be even more desperate for victory than usual.

There is no doubt that Sunderland are the worthy favourites, though. If both teams play their best, the home side should come out on top in a comfortable fashion.