A Wolves vs Sunderland stat that bodes well for Vitor Pereira ahead of Premier League return

The end of the international break is in sight and Wolves are gearing up for a high-stakes Premier League return.

Calling it a two-week break is misleading. Wolves have 17 players on international duty, many of whom will return having played twice.

But the first game back is vital. Newly promoted Sunderland host Vitor Pereira’s side, and will be eager to continue their strong start that has them in the top half after seven games.

It won’t be easy, but Wolves need their first three points of the campaign. History suggests this game is the perfect opportunity.

• READ MORE: Every Vitor Pereira signing at Wolves rated, including a standout 8/10 and a disappointing 4/10

Sunderland at the top of Wolves points per game chart

Wolves have faced 41 different opponents over the course of their Premier League history, stretching back to the 2003/04 season.

Of those 41, Sunderland are the side Wolves have enjoyed the most success against, at least on a per game basis.

In just six Premier League meetings between the sides, Wolves have won four and drawn one. That works out as 2.17 points per game.

All those fixtures occurred between 2009 and 2012, so not exactly the most pertinent information, but it could be enough to give Pereira’s men a mental edge.

This Sunderland side is quality, no doubt, but Wolves can’t shy away from the challenge. If they were to lose this weekend, it would be a hammer blow after the relative positivity that started building before the break.

Sunderland’s weakness for Wolves to exploit

Sunderland have surprised everyone this season, already amassing 11 points, good enough for ninth in the league.

But there is a concerning trend with them that Wolves could look to capitalise on.

In the last four games, Regis le Bris’ side have scored just twice. In fact, if you take out their opening day 3-0 win against West Ham, it’s just four league goals for the season.

If Wolves can continue their solid defensive displays, they should be able to limit Sunderland’s attack.

Then it will just be a case of finding a goal or two. With Burnley coming up next, a win against Sunderland could be the catalyst for a run of results that Wolves desperately need.