Roberto De Zerbi makes his Premier League return as Tottenham Hotspur visit Sunderland at the Stadium of Light today.
The Italian manager replaces Igor Tudor after a dismal run left Spurs one point above the relegation zone. Tottenham are currently winless in 13 league matches, their second-longest drought in club history.
However, they remain unbeaten in their last 15 Premier League games against the Black Cats. A victory today would move De Zerbi’s side closer to mid-table security.
Sunderland arrive buoyant after a famous 2–1 derby win over Newcastle United before the international break. Regis Le Bris oversaw a resilient display that completed a historic double over their bitter rivals.
Notably, Sunderland sit 11th and remain within touching distance of the European qualification spots. They have won two of their last three matches following a difficult winter period. They now aim to win back-to-back league games for only the second time this season.
Sunderland vs Tottenham Hotspur – Match preview and team news
Date: Sunday, 12 April 2026
Kick-off: 14:00 BST
Venue: Stadium of Light, Sunderland
Referee: Rob Jones
VAR: James Bell
Last Meeting: Tottenham Hotspur 1–1 Sunderland (4 January 2026, Premier League)
Team news
Sunderland
Regis Le Bris welcomes back goalkeeper Robin Roefs after a three-game absence with a hamstring injury. Furthermore, Nordi Mukiele, Reinildo, and Enzo Le Fée are all available to start. However, Dan Ballard and Nílson Angulo remain sidelined for at least another week. Notably, Chemsdine Talbi continues in attack after netting four league goals so far this campaign.
Tottenham Hotspur
Roberto De Zerbi faces a massive injury crisis in his first game in charge of the Lilywhites. Guglielmo Vicario is out following hernia surgery, meaning Antonín Kinský starts in goal. Consequently, Mohammed Kudus, James Maddison, and Dejan Kulusevski are all ruled out with various injuries. Richarlison is fit to start and seeks his tenth league goal of the season.
Form
Sunderland
Sunderland have lost three consecutive home games but remain a threat on the counter-attack. They have picked up as many points in their last three games as in their previous 12. Notably, seven of the last 13 meetings between these sides have ended in a draw. The Black Cats rely on their tactical discipline to exploit Spurs’ defensive vulnerabilities.
Tottenham Hotspur
Spurs have collected two-thirds of their Premier League points away from home this season. They have conceded 50 goals this term, with only 18% coming from non-penalty set-pieces. Notably, only Leeds have scored a higher proportion of goals from set-plays than Tottenham. De Zerbi has won his first league game at three of his last four clubs.
