United seek to extend EPL unbeaten run against Sunderland
Manchester United will be looking to extend their Premier League unbeaten run to 21 matches when they travel to struggling Sunderland today.
Although United have not lost in the league since October 23, their top-four challenge has stalled in recent weeks with three draws from their last four matches.
They have also struggled to score goals, with their total of 43 significantly fewer than any other side in the top six.
“I think it’s a good feeling to know we don’t lose many matches, that we have a fantastic run of 20 games unbeaten in the Premier League,” said manager Jose Mourinho.
“You are quite solid mentally, difficult to beat, you fight against difficult circumstances, that kind of mentality of resilience, it’s good to have it.
“But the points are the reality and it would be better for us in 10 matches to have five victories and five defeats.”
While United battle for the top four, Sunderland look destined for the drop after defeats to Watford and Leicester in the last week have left them 10 points from safety.
But Sunderland boss David Moyes, who managed United in the 2013/14 season, said: “We’ll push as hard as we can and sometimes one game can make a difference. Hopefully that game can be this weekend.
“It’s a massive ask for us now, but we’re not relegated yet and we have a chance.” Opta stats Sunderland have lost 22 times against Manchester United in the Premier League - against no side have they suffered more Premier League defeats (also 22 against Chelsea).
Manchester United haven’t won any of their last three games at the Stadium of Light in all competitions (D1 L2), this after an unbeaten run of 11 matches there.