8:10am Tuesday 9th March 2010
By Liam Chronnell
SAM Ricketts insists there is no room for sentiment as he looks to add to Michael Turner’s relegation troubles.
The former team-mates go head-to-head for the first time since they left Hull at the Stadium of Light tonight.
Close pals Ricketts and Sunderland’s Turner used to room together in their time at the KC Stadium.
But the versatile Wanderers defender says friendship will go out the window as Owen Coyle’s side chase a third successive victory.
“We were room-mates and used to play alongside each other — I was right-back and he was centre-half — so I’m looking forward to playing against him,” said Ricketts.
“But it’s another massive game for us and we will be looking to keep our run going.
“It’s similar to West Ham in terms of going there and trying to keep the fans quiet.
“I’m really looking forward to the game to be honest.
“When you are winning you want to keep that habit going and try to pick up the points.”
Sunderland have not won in the Premier League since November — a run stretching back 14 top-flight games.
After making their best start to a season in 35 years, Steve Bruce’s struggling team are now just three points above the drop zone.
And Ricketts has been shocked by the Black Cats’ freefall.
“It’s surprised me,” said the 28-year-old. “At the start of the season they were being tipped to perhaps push into Europe.
“They have got good individual players and I’m not sure why it’s not happening for them — but hopefully it won’t again on Tuesday night.”
Sunderland’s last game was a goalless draw with Fulham nine days ago — and Ricketts believes Wanderers can take advantage of their inactivity.
He said: “Training is a lot different to games and sometimes when you see a team that hasn’t played for a while then they can take 10-15 minutes to get going.
“If that is the case then we will look to take advantage early on and start like we did against West Ham.”
© Copyright 2001-2012 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.leighjournal.co.uk/trade_directory/