Jack Ross will return to St Mirren on Saturday, as Sunderland face their penultimate pre-season test (KO 3pm).
The Lads manager spent just over 18 months at the Paisley 2021 Stadium, guiding the Buddies from top to bottom as they romped to the title during the 2017-18 season.
Ross transformed the club's fortunes and was linked with a plethora of Football League clubs, but the Black Cats secured his services and he’s wasted no time shaping his squad.
Six summer signings are already through the door and most of them are expected to feature on Saturday, with Jon McLaughlin and Alim Ozturk expexted to return.
Reece James will miss out, though, with Ross ruling the left-back out of action for ‘a couple of weeks’.
The Lads produced their best performance so far on Tuesday evening, as the Scot saw his side better Grimsby Town and pick up a first win.
Lynden Gooch scored the only goal of the game at Blundell Park, connecting with a sumptuous Chris Maguire cross as the Lads’ attacking players took centre stage.
St Mirren, meanwhile, have already began their Betfair Cup campaign.
The Buddies have secured two wins from two competitive outings, defeating Kilmarnock and Spartans, with both victories coming via penalties.
Former Sunderland defender Alan Stubbs replaced Ross at the helm, returning to management for the first time since October 2016.
FOLLOW THE ACTION
Tickets can be purchased directly from the ticket office from 10am on Saturday, subject to availability.
Supporters wishing to purchase in advance can do so via St Mirren by calling 0141 889 2558.
Tickets are priced at £12 for adults and £6 for over-65s, under-18s and full-time students with a valid ID.
BBC Radio Newcastle’s Nick Barnes will be broadcasting live right here on safc.com from 2.45pm.
As ever, there will be comprehensive coverage across our digital channels including safc.com’s matchday blog and live updates on Twitter via @SunderlandAFC.
