Sunderland host AZ Alkmaar without two key players for their European opener.
The historic Stadium of Light fixture ends a 53-year continental absence. Head coach Régis Le Bris faces immediate selection challenges ahead of the 8pm kick-off.
Attacker Romaine Mundle misses the match completely due to a knee injury. Midfielder Habib Diarra is also sidelined with a hamstring problem. Diarra will not return to competitive action until after the upcoming international break.
The squad must rely on Granit Xhaka’s European experience to navigate these early setbacks. Le Bris must adjust his AZ Alkmaar tactical setup to overcome a side currently second in the Eredivisie.
European Absences And Broadcast Details
The Dutch visitors bring their own injury concerns to Wearside. Denso Kasius and Kees Smit are absent from the travelling squad with groin issues. Midfielder Stije Resink is additionally unavailable due to a knee problem.
Fans in the UK can watch the fixture live on TNT Sports via HBO Max. Coverage on TNT Sports 1 begins at 7pm ahead of the evening kick-off. Local supporters can also follow live radio commentary through BBC Radio Newcastle.
FourFourTwo describes the highly anticipated return to continental football as a “once-in-a-lifetime” occasion for supporters.
Sunderland travel to face Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday following this European tie.
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