Black Cats gifted early derby chance

Sunderland will be reunited with Jordan Henderson on the opening weekend of the Barclays Premier League 2011/12 season as they begin their campaign with a trip to Liverpool.

The Black Cats face a blockbuster first home game of the season, as they host Newcastle United, and then travel to newly promoted Swansea City.

Steve Bruce's side's difficult start continues with the visit of Chelsea and then Stoke City before visiting another of the promoted sides, Norwich City.

Chelsea are again the opponents for Sunderland's first game of the new year, while they end their season with the visit of Manchester United.

 

OPENING FIVE FIXTURES

3/08/2011 - Liverpool vs Sunderland

20/08/2011 - Sunderland vs Newcastle United

27/08/2011 - Swansea City vs Sunderland

10/09/2011 - Sunderland vs Chelsea

17/09/2011 - Sunderland vs Stoke City

KEY FIXTURES

03/03/2012 - Newcastle United vs Sunderland

LAST THREE FIXTURES

8/04/2012 - Sunderland vs Bolton Wanderers

05/05/2012 - Fulham vs Sunderland

13/05/2012 - Sunderland vs Manchester United