David Prutton is expecting Sunderland to suffer another defeat this weekend, when they travel to Barnsley in the Sky Bet Championship, reports Sky Sports.

Writing in his prediction column for Sky, Prutton has predicted that Barnsley will pick up a valuable three-points via a 1-0 victory over Sunderland at Oakwell.

The Tykes have started the 2017/18 season poorly, picking up just three-points from their opening four fixtures, leaving Paul Heckingbottom’s side already facing a difficult campaign.

Barnsley’s only victory of the season was an impressive 2-1 win against Nottingham Forest, but they failed to build on that performance and result last weekend, losing 1-0 to Sheffield United in a South Yorkshire derby.

Their opponents this weekend, Sunderland, surprised many with their early season form, with Simon Grayson’s men picking up five-points from their opening three fixtures.

The Black Cats met Leeds United last weekend at the Stadium of Light, and despite entering the contest in fantastic form, Grayson’s men were pulled apart by Leeds, who ran out comfortable 2-0 winners.

Grayson will be hoping his side can rediscover the form they have shown away from home already this season, after positive displays against Norwich City and Sheffield Wednesday saw them pick up four-points earlier this month.

The Verdict

This is a brave call from Prutton, particularly after the poor form Barnsley have shown during the early stages of the Championship season.

Simon Grayson will want a big reaction from his Sunderland side after last week’s disappointing performance against Leeds, and we think he will get it.

Sunderland’s attacking options are excellent, and if they are at their best, Barnsley will be in for a tough afternoon on Saturday.

Barnsley and Sunderland fans… What do you make of Prutton’s prediction? Leave us your score prediction in the comments!