Kevin Phillips issues ‘huge’ Sunderland verdict ahead of MK Dons clash
Kevin Phillips has stressed the “huge” importance of Sunderland beating MK Dons on Saturday.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the Stadium of Light legend claimed Alex Neil’s side “cannot afford to lose” given the position of the two sides in League One.
The Black Cats welcome MK Dons to Wearside on Saturday after four successive games without a win.
Just two points and one league position separate Sunderland and MK Dons, who are unbeaten in their last five.
Alex Neil will be without long-term injury absentees Aiden McGeady, Nathan Broadhead, Luke O’Nien and Lee Burge on Saturday but could welcome back Lynden Gooch and Danny Batth.
When asked by Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs for his preview of the game, Phillips said: “It’s a huge game for Sunderland.
“They cannot afford to lose really given their league positions. They need to win really. It is a high pressure game.
“I’m sure the supporters will turn up in their thousands for Alex Neil’s home game. The support will be there. The big question is – can the players handle the pressure? There may be a few disgruntled fans in the stadium after the ownership revelations this week.
“It’s a big match and a big test for the players. MK Dons are no pushovers but let’s hope they get a result.”
The Athletic revealed on Tuesday (15 February) that Kyril Louis-Dreyfus owns just 41 per cent of Sunderland.
The unpopular Stewart Donald, Juan Sartori, and Charlie Methven own 34 per cent, 20 per cent and 5 per cent respectively.
In other news, Kieran Maguire has claimed Madrox have ‘eyes and ears’ on Sunderland board as ‘dramatic’ news explained.