Sunderland's recent form has been inconsistent, with two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five league matches. Their recent defeat to Brentford, following a draw against Brighton, ended their unbeaten run. Their attacking efficiency has also decreased, scoring only one goal in the last three games. Sunderland relies on the speed of their wingers, the target play of their centre-forward, and set-piece tactics. Midfielder Zaka covers a large area of the pitch, ranking among the league leaders in average distance covered per match. Leeds United has a lighter injury situation compared to Sunderland, but still faces key absences. Key players like striker Nmecha, midfielders Sean Longstaff and Daniel James are unavailable due to injuries, while their starting full-back Struijk is out with a knee injury, weakening their defence on the flanks. They are expected to use a 3-5-2 formation, with Perry in goal, Roden and Bjork forming the central defensive pairing, Ampadu leading the midfield trio, and Calvert-Lewin and Okafor partnering in attack. Due to their poor away form and injuries in key positions, Leeds United may adopt a defensive counter-attacking strategy, conceding possession.