Paul Merson Has His Say on Aston Villa vs Sunderland

Despite Sunderland’s impressive start to life back in the Premier League, pundits Chris Sutton and Paul Merson have both predicted that the Black Cats will suffer defeat at the hands of Aston Villa this Sunday. The match at the Stadium of Light pits a confident, unbeaten-at-home Sunderland against a Villa side still searching for their first league goal of the season.

⚽ Sunderland’s Strong Start

Under head coach Régis Le Bris, Sunderland have taken seven points from their opening four matches, including wins over West Ham and Brentford at home and a gritty draw away to Crystal Palace. Their defensive resilience and energetic midfield have earned praise across the board, and the Stadium of Light has quickly become a fortress.

Yet, despite their form, Sutton and Merson believe Villa will finally find their rhythm.

🗣️ Sutton: “Villa Will Come Good”

Speaking to BBC Sport, Chris Sutton forecast a 2–0 win for the visitors, citing Sunderland’s lack of backing from him in previous weeks — and the backlash he’s received from fans.

“I haven't backed Sunderland to win yet this season, and a few of their fans have been hammering me on social media because they have made a really good start,” Sutton said. “But I am not just going to back them to win for the sake of it… I’m going to say Villa will come good, and for Ollie Watkins to not just get their first goal of the season, but to secure their first win too.”

🗣️ Merson: “Villa’s Quality Will Show”

Paul Merson, speaking to Sportskeeda, echoed Sutton’s prediction, tipping Villa for a narrow 1–0 win. While acknowledging Sunderland’s momentum and Villa’s poor form — including their recent cup exit to Brentford — Merson believes the visitors’ quality will eventually shine through.

“Sunderland will look at this game as a huge chance to get another impressive win on home turf,” Merson said. “Villa must absorb the early pressure and stay in the game… I expect Villa’s quality to get them over the line in the end here.”

Merson also criticized Villa’s attacking options, calling out Jadon Sancho for his lack of risk-taking and urging Harvey Elliott to start.

🔮 Clash of Form vs Frustration

Villa currently sit 19th in the table, winless and goalless after four matches. Sunderland, meanwhile, are riding high in seventh, with a squad full of new signings and growing belief. The pundits’ predictions may raise eyebrows, but they reflect the unpredictable nature of Premier League football — especially when a struggling side is desperate to turn the tide.

Sunday’s clash promises to be a test of Sunderland’s resilience and Villa’s ability to respond under pressure. Whether Sutton and Merson are proven right or wrong, the Stadium of Light is set for a compelling showdown.