Welcome to the Sunderland AFC live blog for Friday, December 29.
The Black Cats were brought tumbling back to reality at Sheffield United on Boxing Day, losing 3-0 at Bramall Lane. It followed a three-match unbeaten run, although the most recent had been a frustrating draw with Birmingham City.
Manager Chris Coleman was left shell-shocked after the defeat, describing it as the worse by far in his time at the club.
The game was yet more evidence that new signings are desperately needed in January, while there also concern over the fitness of top goalscorer Lewis Grabban.
The transfer window will open in just over one week and we'll be keeping a close eye on that, with Coleman wanting to try and strengthen his squad.
Meanwhile, we'll look ahead to their chance to put things right in the game against Nottingham Forest.
Join Stuart Jamieson for all the latest from the Stadium of Light throughout the day.
Coleman on his bold subs
Since arriving at Sunderland, Coleman has won fans through his use of subs - and using them to go for games.
And Coleman said of that:
If I think I need to make a change again it’s not personal to anybody, that’s our job, to make sure we get the best out of everybody. Josh Maja is 18 and he’d never played in the first team but we think some of these young players have got something to say so we’ll give them their chance and when the time is right to make a change in the game that’s what we’ll do.
Full story is here: http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/chris-coleman-discusses-bold-go-14088075
Klopp on Woodburn's future
Sunderland want the talented Welsh international. Here’s what Klopp said on his future:
Coleman to meet the media today
Hello and welcome today’s live blog with all the latest SAFC news, views and gossip.
Chris Coleman will hold his press conference ahead of Nottingham Forest today too, with updates from that coming from 9:15am.