'You got a bargain in Simon Mignolet'
Sunderland fan James Hunt gives us the lowdown on Sunday's opposition and reveals why the Reds secured 'one hell of a bargain' when they signed Simon Mignolet from the Black Cats.
Talk us through your rather eventful start to the season...
It's painful, so I'll make it quick: we sold our best players, bought more than an entire team's worth of new players, had a manager who was a bit crazy, took just one point from our first five games, sacked said manager for being a bit too crazy.
Was it the right decision to dismiss Paolo Di Canio?
No. Yes. Maybe? I think, given how much was changed when we brought him in, with the club seemingly committing to the plan cooked up by director of football Roberto De Fanti, that to sack him after just five games, when we brought in so many new players who've never played Premier League football, was a bit hasty. However, if talk of a player revolt is true, then I guess that may have forced Ellis Short's hand.
Who would you like to see replace the Italian?
I'd like to see us go for someone like Rene Meulensteen; given the director of football/head coach structure we have, and how highly-rated he was at Manchester United, he could be an interesting choice. Or, if I'm dreaming, perhaps Marcelo Bielsa. However, I'd be surprised if it wasn't Gus Poyet at this stage.
How can we expect Sunderland to line up and what will be the approach?
With Steven Fletcher out, chances are we'll have Jozy Altidore as the lone frontman. Emanuele Giaccherini impressed playing as the No10 in the Capital One Cup, so I'd expect he'll continue there in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Lee Cattermole now back in the centre of midfield. I think, given our form and the recent change at the club, caretaker boss Kevin Ball will want the players to put in a performance - not least because he wants the job! - so we should come out attacking.
How has Fabio Borini performed during his opening weeks with the club?
He hasn't really featured too much so far, so it's difficult to pass judgement. In the fleeting glimpses we've had, he looked reasonably promising, and I'm sure we'll get to see more of him over the course of the season. I think there's obviously a pretty good player there, it's just about fitting him into the side and keeping him fit.
What was the reaction to the club selling Simon Mignolet in the summer? What can Liverpool supporters expect from him?
There was perhaps an air of inevitability about it, but that was covered by clouds of disappointment. He's an exceptional goalkeeper, the best in the league last year (and the main reason we stayed up) and is only going to get better. At £9m, and his relatively young age, you've got one hell of a bargain.
What is the best way to hurt the Black Cats?
Force us to the ground and remind us about the 15-point season, Bruce, the days towards the end of Martin O'Neill...oh, you meant on the pitch?! We've looked very weak all season in the middle of the park and, though Cattermole's return should help, the quality you have there could mean we're overrun. Likewise, the movement of Sturridge and Suarez has caused problems for defences far better than ours, so that'll be a worry.
Who do you fear most in the Liverpool team?
Daniel Sturridge has started the season brilliantly, and I'd also give special praise to one of our own, Jordan Henderson, who has come on leaps and bounds under Brendan Rodgers.
Any tips for travelling fans heading to the Stadium of Light on Sunday?
Come prepared for Greggs and Wetherspoons! You shouldn't be short of a pub to base yourself in before the game, and despite appearances we are a pretty friendly bunch.