Sunderland start their 2016-17 Checkatrade Trophy campaign on Tuesday evening against Rochdale (KO 7.45pm).
Placed in Group F, the Black Cats will also take on Notts County and local side Hartlepool United, with the Magpies overcoming Pools 2-1 in the opening game.
Robbie Stockdale will take charge of proceedings at the Crown Oil Arena with under-23 boss Andy Welsh, who worked closely with Stockdale during his time as under-21 coach, assisting.
Manged by Keith Hill, Rochdale have endured a miserable start to the season losing four of their opening six games, meaning they sit rooted to the bottom of League One with just two points.
Last season the Dale finished a commendable tenth while reaching the quarter-finals of the Football Trophy, and Hill will be hoping for a similar showing in this campaign’s tournament as the hosts attempt to kick-start their campaign.
Sunderland, meanwhile, will field a blend of youth and experience with Stockdale confirming that Jan Kirchhoff will make a return to action following a hamstring injury.
The first-team coach also revealed that other members of David Moyes’ squad could feature, while hailing the importance of the competition for the club’s under-23s as they aim to gather valuable experience.
Football League rules state that that Sunderland must field six players who are 21 or under in their starting XI.
The match marks the first competitive meeting between Sunderland and Rochdale.
Prices for the game are just £5 for adults and £1 for juniors (16 and under) and can be purchased via the turnstiles.
Alternatively, fans can tune into all the action via safc.com’s matchday centre, which includes live audio, with updates also available via Twitter @SunderlandAFC.
Comprehensive build-up and behind-the-scenes content will also be available via the club’s other social media accounts including snapchat (SAFCOfficial).
