Sunderland AFC news: Michael Beale press conference, Huddersfield team news plus Netflix release

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Sunderland AFC news as Black Cats boss Michael Beale speaks to the media ahead of Wednesday's Championship match against Huddersfield Town.

Sunderland are preparing for Wednesday's Championship match against Huddersfield Town - with head coach Michael Beale set to hold his pre-match press conference today.

The Black Cats have taken seven points from their last three league games following Saturday's 3-1 win over Plymouth at the Stadium of Light. Huddersfield are fighting at the other end of the table and were beaten 5-3 by Southampton on Saturday, with caretaker boss Jon Worthington still in charge following Darren Moore's sacking last month.

We'll have live updates from the Academy of Light as Beale speaks to the media:

Sunderland AFC news

"I've seen the first series and you guys look a lot older than what you did in that. That's what following Sunderland does to you, or is it just natural you get a little bit older?

"It took our club to the whole world. Our club is a well-known club anyway but obviously the series took it to the whole world, not just the people inside the club but the fans as well showed the passion of the club and the ups and downs.

"I've not watched the first one yet of the new series but I'm looking forward to it. There's one or two in the building who are a bit nervous about it.

"I think what it does is it showcases the passion of our club and the following, and importance of our club and the local community."

Beale on Chris Rigg

"I think his mentality is a big strength, probably his biggest strength and it's how long he can keep his mentality like that. That's not to down talk his technique or tactical intelligence but he's a boy from this part of the world and it means a lot to him.

"I think his mentality at 16, to be fearless, go in and play, and play against midfielders who are sometimes double his age, I think is fantastic.

"I actually put him on with Jobe at the weekend because I wanted us to win more duels in midfield. I thought it was a crucial moment in the game at 2-1. When you are putting on a 16-year-old in a Championship game to win duels you must have a trust in his mentality."

That brings us to the end of the broadcast section of the press conference, but Beale has also spoken to the written press including our reporter Phil Smith.

You can find more from the Black Cats boss and build-up to Wednesday's match over on the SAFC section of the Echo website.

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