Sunderland have not won in their past five Premier League games but a drop-off was to be expected. The Black Cats had six players at the Africa Cup of Nations, more than any other team in the league. They go into the weekend in 10th spot, albeit within three points of Brentford in fifth.
Troubles piling up at Palace
It has been a rough few weeks for Palace and the issues appear to be piling up.
Palace are without a win in nine games and the squad appears to be creaking under the weight of their European commitments. The Eagles have more injuries than any team in the top flight, with up to 10 players out; they have also made just 22 changes to their starting XI this season, nine fewer than any other team.
Cracks are appearing at both ends of the pitch too. They have been remarkably vulnerable from set-pieces, with nine of their past 11 goals conceded in all competitions coming from dead-ball situations.
Up top, manager Oliver Glasner will hope to see some key men rediscover their scoring touch with Ismaila Sarr still at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Yeremy Pino found the net at Macclesfield with a superb free-kick and all four of his goals for the club have come away from Selhurst Park.
Jean-Philippe Mateta will be back in the squad after he was rested for Macclesfield. The Frenchman has eight goals this season but just one in his past 10 games.
Mateta has also been profligate with his opportunities, with Bournemouth’s David Brooks the only player to underperform their Premier League xG more.