Norwich – Sunderland,

Lambert happy to keep Sunderland guessing

Since Paul Lambert’s arrival at Carrow Road, he has taken them from League One to the Premier League in the space of the two seasons. They didn’t heavily invest in the transfer market (probably the most known names are Vaughan from Everton and Morison from Millwall) and despite they were tipped as number one contenders to go down, the Canaries are doing well so far. A win, two draws and two defeats with decent displays (that saw them pushing Chelsea at Stamford Bridge) is a decent base for growing optimism. In the previous round they defeated Bolton on the road (2-1), in a game where Lambert made six changes to his starting line-up. Additionally, The Canaries have only four players who have played all five games so far and just one who has started all five. Steve Bruce must have a headache trying to guess which eleven his side will face. Sure thing is centre-half Zak Whitbread will miss again, while another two defenders, Elliott Ward and Dani Ayala, both remain out.

Familiar territory for boss Bruce

Steve Bruce had been suffering heavy critics after his team noticed only two points of four opening games (and knocked out from the Cup from second tier side – Brighton), while his press conferences were more interesting then club’s games (you must have a sympathy for someone who says: “Mass hysteria for me it was nothing more than a storm in a teacup”). Then he proved his point by trashing a side that was proud on their defence, Stoke. Impressive 4-0 victory brought some smiles at Stadium of Light, but trip to Norfolk should be a real test of their abilities. Bruce will not have injury worries against his former club (made 80 appearances as a player for City between 1984-87 before moving on to captain Manchester United), full-back Phil Bardsley sits out the second of a four game suspension, while goalkeeper Gordon and forward Campbell continue with their rehabilitation from injury. If Black Cats avoid defeat they will have gone five games on the road without a loss, their longest unbeaten run away from home since November 1999 (six games) in Premier League.

Another close affair at Carrow Road

The bookmakers made Norwich as slight favourites for this encounter, but I can’t overlook the fact they still haven’t won at home (same as Sunderland haven’t won away). They have advantage in home ground (will be packed), Sunderland in pure quality. They made a great win in previous round, Sunderland demolished Stoke. No, I cannot separate these two sides and see draw as the only logic conclusion! The Canaries have conceded penalties in each of their five league games equalling the record set by Wimbledon in season 1999-2000.

Recommended bet:

Draw @ 3.40 (Bet365)

Other bet:

Penalty in match – Yes @ 4.33 (William Hill)