Sunderland under-23s return to Wearside this Sunday keen to build on Monday night's superb turnaround at Leicester City.
Ahead of the game safc.com has put together a small all you need to know guide...
Fixture: Sunderland U23 v Southampton U23
Location: Eppleton Colliery Welfare
Date and kick-off: Sunday 28 August, KO 1pm
Competition: Premier League 2
Speaking Welsh – Sunderland under-23 coach Andy Welsh
"I was delighted with our application against a very strong Leicester City team because I thought we stuck to the game plan well.
"We pressed them when we had to and we allowed them space to play at the right times. Our decision making was good and that was pleasing.
"As the game wore on we started to see more and more of the ball and that played into our hands as we had more and more chances.
"Hopefully we can continue that and show the same desire and endeavor this weekend against an unbeaten Southampton team."
How they line-up: Southampton
League position: 2nd
League wins: 2
League defeats: 0
League goals scored: 6
League goals conceded: 1
Form guide: W-W
SPOTLIGHT: Southampton under-23s coach Martin Hunter
The Saints' development team boss began his career in the north east as a regional coach before moving to Bradford City, where he became their assistant manager.
After two years at Valley Parade, Hunter moved to Stoke City where he spent five months as the Potters assistant coach. A spell in the FA set-up then saw him become part of the under-19 and under-20 England squad. With a wealth of experience to draw on, Hunter became the first-team coach at Norwich City in 2006 before later joining Watford and then Southampton.
One to watch: Jake Hesketh
The midfielder, who made his first team debut against Manchester United in December 2014, is highly thought of in the Saints academy. Hesketh is a stylish player who is dominant in midfield and has the ability to control the tempo of games.
Ticket info
General admission for the game is priced at £3 for adults and £1 for over 65s and under 16s while 2016-17 season card holders can gain free entry.
All tickets are sold subject to ground regulations.
