Key fixtures for Cats in Premier League return

SUNDERLAND will kick off their Premier League season against West Ham United on Saturday, August 16.

- By CLIVE YOULTON Football writer

It will be the first of 33 weekend match rounds along with five midweek games in the fixture schedule, with Regis Le Bris’ side starting their campaign against the Hammers at the Stadium of Light.

The final game of the season will be played on Sunday, May 24 with every game kicking off at the same time.

All other matches will be subject to change due to television coverage, domestic cup competitions and commitments from teams participating in European competition.

As there was during the club's time in the Sky Bet Championship, there will be four international breaks - in September, October, November and March. The African Cup of Nations will take place from December and January but fixtures will continue to run.

Here are all the key dates going into the new campaign...

OPENING DAY

West Ham United (H): Aug 16

In the first meeting between the teams for more than eight years, the Lads will be looking to get their topflight campaign off to a winning start against the claret and blue.