The tactics behind Sunderland’s impressive start to the Premier League

Le Presse’s tactical versatility is evident when Sunderland play without possession this season. Although they were difficult to break down defensively, it wasn’t just through deep defence.

Sunderland tend to start strong. Le Press directs his players into high pressing, often in a man-to-man style, and Sunderland’s ability to execute this has been impressive.

Newly promoted teams are reluctant to defend this way because making mistakes makes your team more vulnerable, as individuals need to cover greater distances on their own. With the pace of the Premier League, Sunderland’s decision to adopt this approach after promotion is a brave one but it has paid off.

In their 2-1 win over Chelsea on 25 October, high man-to-man pressing forced the hosts back. The press often aimed to force Chelsea to the left flank due to their lack of a left-back at centre-back. This reduced the success of the Blues’ constructive play from the back.

Sunderland apply this high press when opponents take goal kicks, but have shown a willingness to jump as a team and press man-to-man, often using back passes as a catalyst for the team to press together.