Latest Sunderland News Ahead of Monday’s Clash with Leeds United
Sunderland are set to resume their Championship campaign on Monday night as they take on Leeds United at Elland Road. Régis Le Bris’ squad will be aiming to narrow the gap between themselves and the automatic promotion contenders.
However, in the build-up to the highly anticipated fixture, several noteworthy developments have surfaced regarding both Sunderland and Leeds United, with the match set to be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
Sunderland’s Stance on Pierre Ekwah’s Future
Reports suggest that Sunderland have “no plans” to reintegrate Pierre Ekwah into their first-team squad next season.
The French midfielder departed the Stadium of Light on transfer deadline day last summer, joining St Etienne on loan, where he has since become a key player. The 23-year-old has featured regularly for the French side, who hold an option to make his move permanent next summer for a fee reported to be around £6 million. Additionally, The Echo reports that Sunderland secured a seven-figure loan fee as part of the deal.
Despite Sunderland’s ongoing push for Premier League promotion, fresh reports indicate that the club does not envision Ekwah as part of their long-term plans, regardless of the league they find themselves in next season.
Leeds United’s Statement on Anti-Palestine Chant
Ahead of the Sunderland fixture, Leeds United have issued a statement addressing a controversial chant containing an anti-Palestine lyric, which has been directed at their player Manor Solomon.
The statement reaffirmed the club’s stance against discriminatory behavior, stating:
*”Leeds United once again condemn the football chant containing an anti-Palestine lyric aimed at Manor Solomon, having already done so through comments to local and national media outlets in December. Hate crime and discriminatory language or chanting is not acceptable at Leeds United, and the club maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of discrimination and abuse.
“The club has received numerous complaints from Leeds United supporters regarding the chant. Despite previous efforts—such as public condemnation and collaboration with fan groups—the issue has persisted, becoming more prevalent at recent matches, including at Elland Road.
“Following ongoing monitoring, the origins of the chant at Elland Road appear to stem from the Norman Hunter South Stand, particularly in sections FA5, FA6, SS5, and SS6. As a result, additional CCTV surveillance and stewarding will be implemented in these areas for the remainder of the season. Anyone found participating in the chant will face disciplinary action, including the possibility of a club banning order.
“Discriminatory language can be reported to the nearest steward or discreetly via the Matchday Incident Text Service by texting LEEDS and your message to 60006. With so much at stake in the coming weeks, this is a time for unity within our fan base, not division. Thank you for your co-operation.”*
With both teams preparing for a crucial match in the promotion race, attention will now turn to events on the pitch at Elland Road.
