CATS BREAK THE MOULD OVER SPENDING RULES

THERE are natural comparisons between Leeds and Sunderland given both were promoted last season.

- BY ISAAC JOHNSON

Indeed, the Black Cats grabbed two targets off the Whites this summer in Habib Diarra (right) and Noah Sadiki - two of six players away at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Those absences will hamper Sunderland, but Regis Le Bris's side have probably given themselves breathing space when it comes to relegation.