Roker Report
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Haway The Podcast | SIMON JOHNSON FROM THE ATHLETIC! | Previewing Sunderland v Chelsea!
In the latest Haway The Podcast episode, Roker Report hosts sit down with Simon Johnson of The Athletic to break down Chelsea ahead of Sunderland’s November 7 Premier League clash. Johnson discusses the club’s recovery from last season, evaluates new manager Mauricio Pochettino’s impact, and outlines Chelsea’s title ambitions and chances of securing three points against a struggling Sunderland side. The podcast also offers predictions for the match and invites fan interaction.
Kevin Kilbane Reflects on Sunderland, Peter Reid and Derby Day
Former Sunderland midfielder Kevin Kilbane looks back on his Premier League heyday in a Roker Report interview. He recalls breaking through at Preston, winning the Division Four title in 2000‑01, and credits Sam Allardyce for shaping his early career. Kilbane highlights Sunderland’s back‑to‑back seventh‑place finishes, praising teammates like Niall Quinn, Kevin Phillips, and Julio Arca, and manager Peter Reid’s strict yet respected leadership. He also remembers the passionate travelling fans and his iconic overhead kick that clinched a 1‑0 win at Southampton’s Dell. The chat, recorded on 28 October, offers nostalgic insights for Black Cats supporters.
Sunderland Must Avoid a Return to Those Dark Premier League Days
Sunderland face a critical slump, with just one win in nine Premier League matches, while still reaching the Europa League quarter‑finals and the League Cup last‑16. Manager Régis Le Bris must reverse the worst league run of his tenure ahead of a showdown with Chelsea before the international break, hoping squad rotation and returning fitness can spark a turnaround. The article warns that prolonged poor form could echo the club’s disastrous Premier League years a decade ago and urges fans to brace for a decisive test.
Sunderland Fans Need to Stop Policing Each Other’s Attendances
Sunderland supporters are urged to stop policing each other’s match attendances after a recent Carabao Cup fourth‑round win over Brentford sparked a wave of misleading social‑media posts. The 3‑2 victory drew about 24,000 fans at the Stadium of Light, yet some online pages falsely claimed only 7,000 were present, using doctored images for click‑bait. The author critiques these faceless “footie banter” accounts, describing them as an echo chamber of negativity that even forced him to delete the X app. The piece highlights how such false attendance narratives undermine genuine fan enthusiasm.
OTD (7/11/1919): Farewell To Ned Doig, The ‘Crown Prince Of Goalkeepers’
The article commemorates Ned Doig, Sunderland’s legendary ‘Crown Prince of Goalkeepers,’ on the 107th anniversary of his burial at Anfield Cemetery. Born in Scotland in 1866, Doig began as an outfielder before becoming a pioneering keeper known for his athleticism and daring style. He earned four Scottish caps, won four English league titles—three with Sunderland (1892, 1893, 1895) and one with Liverpool (1905)—and made 456 league appearances for the Black Cats, often as an ever‑present. At 41, he remains Liverpool’s oldest player. A new plaque now marks his grave, honoring his lasting impact on early football history.
Andy’s Player Ratings: Sunderland u21 1-2 Blackburn Rovers u21 – Alan Browne Sees Red As Black Cats Lose
In Andy’s Player Ratings for Sunderland U21’s 1‑2 loss to Blackburn Rovers U21 on November 6, 2026, Tom Proctor earns Man of the Match with a decisive strike and a key assist for Jack Whittaker. Sunderland’s defenders—Isaac Allen, Jenson Jones, Ben Kindon, and Joe Neild—each receive 5/10 for miscues that led to a first‑half penalty and the opening goal. Midfielders Liam Hunt (7/10) and Alan Browne (6/10) perform solidly, though Browne caps the night with two quick yellows. Off‑the‑bench contributions are modest, while Blackburn’s Angulo and Juan Riquelme make limited impact. The ratings highlight Sunderland’s defensive lapses and Proctor’s standout effort.
Sunderland’s Woes Can’t Solely Be Pinned On Régis Le Bris
Régis Le Bris’s tenure at Sunderland is under fire after a string of poor performances in the 2026‑27 Europa League and domestic fixtures. The Roker Report argues his new tactical approach backfires, citing predictable line‑ups, ineffective substitutions and a lack of vertical play that clash with the squad’s strengths. Critics also blame the club’s summer transfer inactivity, a hesitant sporting director, and questionable coaching staff – including assistant Michael Proctor – for the team’s identity crisis. With the captain seemingly disengaged and board support lacking, the article predicts Le Bris’s departure is inevitable.
Metrics, Big Cats & Sunday Lunch: What’s Next For Le Bris?
Sunderland’s hierarchy backs Régis Le Bris despite the Black Cats sitting bottom of the Premier League, with owner Kyril Louis‑Dreyfus & Co. reportedly ready to inject funds in January. The article dissects the club’s decline, citing defensive lapses, misplaced assumptions about key players like Awoniyi, Alderete, Reinildo and Brobbey, and a reliance on thin margins last season—Sunderland topped the xG battle in only 13 of 38 games and won four matches they were statistically expected to lose. The piece argues the squad needs structural reset and better organization to translate support into results, while hinting at potential financial backing to aid a turnaround.
2 Up, 2 Down: From Bad To Worse As Sunderland Lose Again
Sunderland’s woes deepen after a dismal 2-0 loss to Dinamo Zagreb on November 5, 2026. Manager Régis Le Bris faces criticism for a lack of dynamism, predictable passing and poor set‑piece execution, while players admit they felt “robotic” and lacked confidence. Wingers Nilson Angulo and Malick Fofana showed flashes but were constantly isolated, and Wilson Isidor’s return failed to spark goals. Critics highlighted a “gutless” performance, tactical ineptitude and the need for a swift change, though Reinildo’s second‑half runs offered a rare positive. The article paints a bleak picture of a side far from its former fighting spirit.
Matchday Musings: Another Harrowing Loss As Dinamo Zagreb Breeze To Victory
Dinamo Zagreb cruise to a 2-0 Europa League win over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on November 5, 2026, with goals from Drena Beljo and Luka Stojković. Sunderland’s hopes crumble despite flashes from Jules Ahoka, Chris Rigg, Malick Fofana and Nilson Angulo, and a disallowed Wilson Isidor goal. Coach Régis Le Bris faces heightened scrutiny as the team’s defensive lapses and lack of cohesion threaten a disastrous 2026/27 campaign. The loss deepens concerns over morale, fan unrest, and the club’s European ambitions.
OTD (06/11/24): Le Bris’ Gamble Leads To Frustration Against Preston
Sunderland’s 0-0 draw at Preston on Dec. 7, 2024 sparked fan frustration after coach Régis Le Bris benched season stars Patrick Roberts and Romaine Mundle for debutants Tommy Watson and Aaron Connolly. The gamble fell flat, with Connolly’s best chance saved by Freddie Woodman after Trai Hume’s effort. Despite the lackluster attack, Sunderland kept a clean sheet, extending their unbeaten run to seven games and staying atop the Championship ahead of Leeds and Sheffield United. Le Bris defended his rotation, citing squad depth and the suspension of key midfielder Jobe Bellingham.
Haway The Podcast | More Of The Same From Le Bris And Sunderland
In the latest episode of Haway The Podcast, hosts Martin, Brett and Bomber dissect Sunderland’s dismal performance that failed to correct the team’s weekend woes. They highlight key errors, lack of positives, and question how the club slipped so badly so quickly, offering a candid post‑match analysis. Listeners can subscribe for daily Sunderland coverage and reach out via email or social media.
Andy’s Player Ratings: Sunderland 0-2 Dinamo Zagreb – Black Cats Disappoint At Home
In a disappointing home loss, Sunderland fell 0-2 to Dinamo Zagreb in the Europa League on November 5, 2026. Andy’s player ratings highlight a mixed showing: goalkeeper Robin Roefs (5/10) and defender Thomas Meunier (5/10) managed decent moments, while captain Granit Xhaka tops the low list at 3/10 for risky midfield errors. Nilson Angulo earns Man of the Match with a 6/10 for relentless effort, despite limited output. Substitutes like Noah Sadiki and Brian Brobbey provide energy, but overall the squad struggled to create chances, leaving fans unsettled after the defeat.
Haway The Podcast | ROTATE OR GO FULL STRENGTH?! | Sunderland v Dinamo Zagreb | Europa League Preview
Sunderland host Dinamo Zagreb at the Stadium of Light in a crucial Europa League tie, and Roker Report’s Haway The Podcast breaks down the stakes. Hosts Gav, Martin, Ant and Andrew discuss the Croatian side’s threat, the mounting pressure on manager Régis Le Bris after a poor Premier League run, and whether he should rotate his squad ahead of an upcoming Chelsea match or field his strongest XI. They also examine how European form could spark a season turnaround and share their predictions for the night under the lights.
An Introduction to Dinamo Zagreb: What Can Sunderland Expect?
Sunderland host Croatian champions Dinamo Zagreb for their second Europa League home match, and Roker Report breaks down what the Wearside side faces. The piece offers a quick guide to Zagreb – its historic centre, quirky attractions and even the world’s shortest funicular – before diving into Dinamo’s legacy. Founded in 1911, the club has won 25 Croatian league titles, 18 Cups and boasts alumni such as Luka Modrić, Mario Mandžukić and current stars Mateo Kovačić and Joško Gvardiol. Their home, Maksimir Stadium, now holds about 25,000 after 2020 quake damage. All this context helps Sunderland fans gauge the challenge ahead.
The Régis Rebirth — Can Le Bris Find The Magic Formula For Sunderland?
Régis Le Bris’s tenure at Sunderland is under intense scrutiny after a string of poor results. Roker Report argues the club must decide whether to stick with Le Bris and give him time to sort the chaos, or demand a swift tactical overhaul. The piece highlights two core issues: a lack of consistent playing style—shifting from a defensively solid, counter‑attack set‑up to a shaky possession game—and a fragmented press that leaves the back line exposed, as seen in recent defeats like the Carabao Cup loss to Brentford. While noting that Sunderland are creating more chances than last season, the author stresses that Le Bris needs to commit to a clear strategy and re‑ignite a collective press to reverse the slump.
What Can Sunderland Expect From Croatian Champions Dinamo Zagreb?
Dinamo Zagreb, fresh off a domestic double, faces a turbulent season after a shocking loss to Rudeš and a failed UCL qualifier against Viking. Coach Mario Kovačević departs by mutual consent, replaced by former player Jerko Leko just before the Europa League tie with Sunderland. Despite a 4‑2 defeat to NEC and only four points from three matches, Leko is expected to bring authority and a mental boost rather than drastic tactical shifts, as the club sticks to a 4‑3‑4 system. Fans hope the change averts an early European exit.
Score Predictions: How Will Sunlun Do Back In Europa League Action?
Roker Report previews Sunderland’s Europa League clash with Dinamo Zagreb, offering a range of bold score forecasts. Pundits predict anything from a 4-0 win (Martin Wanless, 7/10 confidence) to a 1-1 draw (Will Jones, 5/10) and even a 6-1 rout (Anthony Gair, 1/10). Common themes include the impact of Jules Ahoka, recent managerial changes at Zagreb, and possible squad rotations after Sunderland’s poor league form. Confidence scores average around 6/10, with most analysts expecting Sunderland to at least edge a victory.
Seven Changes for Sunderland For Tonight’s Game Against Zagreb?
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris faces a decisive Europa League tie against Zagreb after a lackluster previous match. He has hinted at a radical line‑up shift, naming goalkeeper Robin Roefs, defenders Thomas Meunier, Kevin Danso and Luke O’Nien, with Dayann Methalie on the left. Midfield could see Nilson Angulo, Granit Xhaka, Jules Ahoka, Chemsdine Talbi and Malick Fofana, while Wilson Isidor replaces Brobbey up front. The changes aim to boost attitude, cohesion and defensive stability ahead of the November 5 fixture.
OTD (5/11/1938): Gallacher Scores Final Goals As Sunderland Claim Season’s First Home Win
On May 11, 1938, Sunderland finally broke their winless home streak, beating Stoke City 3‑0 and climbing to sixth place—their highest finish for eight years. The victory featured Patsy Gallacher’s landmark goal, recorded as his 100th league tally for the club, before adding a second shortly after halftime. Raich Carter opened the scoring, and despite early chances missed by Bobby Gurney and Eddie Burbanks, Sunderland dominated, while Stoke’s rising star Stanley Matthews struggled against a solid defense. The win marked a bright moment for a side that would later slip to 16th and face wartime disruption, and it was Gallacher’s last goal before departing the club.
Sunderland’s European Home Record: A Proud Tradition to Protect
Sunderland’s Europa League campaign offers a bright spot amid Premier League struggles. Despite five defeats in six league games and sitting at the bottom of the table, the Black Cats boast a perfect 100% home record in European competition – the only North‑East club unbeaten at home in UEFA tournaments. Highlights include Enzo Le Fée’s penalty‑win over AZ Alkmaar and historic victories against Vasas Budapest (1973) and Sporting Lisbon. With a narrow two‑point gap to safety and upcoming fixtures against Chelsea and Dinamo Zagreb, head coach Régis Le Bris hopes the unbeaten home tradition can spark a turnaround.
Haway The Podcast | Dinamo Zagreb in Turmoil! | Sunderland Europa League Oppo Preview
In this episode of Haway The Podcast, Sunderland’s Europa League preview focuses on upcoming host‑match against Dinamo Zagreb, who are in turmoil after parting ways with manager Mario Kovačević. Guest expert Lovre Nikolac explains interim boss Jerko Leko’s tactics, highlights Dinamo’s key threats and weaknesses, and predicts how Sunderland’s Régis Le Bris might exploit the Croatian side’s uncertainty. The show also covers the expected travelling support and offers a match prediction, helping fans gauge the challenge ahead.
Brian Brobbey 2031 — A New Chapter In Red And White
Sunderland announce striker Brian Brobbey has signed a new long‑term contract extending his stay until 2031. The Dutch forward, who joined from Ajax on deadline day in 2025, has already netted seven Premier League goals, helped the club secure Europa League qualification and delivered a historic hat‑trick against Manchester City at the Etihad – the first Sunderland Premier League hat‑trick since Jermain Defoe in 2016, earning Player of the Matchweek. Club officials say the deal safeguards a key asset and signals the type of ambitious, physical talent Sunderland aims to build around for future success.
What’s The Root Cause Of Sunderland’s Current Struggles?
Régis Le Bris’ Sunderland struggle stems, the Roker Report argues, from coaching rather than recruitment. While the club nailed a left back, a centre‑half and a promising left winger, it missed a right winger and has spent £92 million on four wingers—only Chemesdine Talbi sees regular starts. The piece highlights underused signings like Malick Fofana and Simon Adingra, and blames Le Bris’ tactics for their poor impact. Midfield worries center on Granit Xhaka’s dip and its knock‑on effect on Noah Sadiki and Enzo Le Fée, while the defence is deemed largely adequate. Overall, the article pins the blame on the coach’s choices and formations.
Brian Brobbey’s Here To Stay: Our Writers React
Sunderland confirm a five‑year contract extension for striker Brian Brobbey, sparking optimism among writers at Roker Report. Contributors praise his hold‑up play, physicality and big‑match goals, noting his low scoring rate but high impact. They warn that relegation could force a summer sale, yet view the deal as solid insurance for a player already valued at £50‑100 million. The consensus is that Brobbey’s commitment and potential clinical improvement could be crucial for Sunderland’s league survival and European ambitions.
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