The stage is set and all the talking is done.
This Saturday, Sunderland face Preston North End at the Stadium of Light with just one thought in their mind – three points.
Here’s our all you need to know guide ahead of the crucial match…
VICTORY
Three points at this stage of the season would be priceless. While it would bring Sunderland’s run of no win in nine to an end, it would breathe life into their hopes of survival in the Sky Bet Championship. Barnsley secured a point at home to Norwich City in mid-week, extending the Black Cats’ distance from safety to five points and cranking up the importance of Saturday’s clash with North End another notch.
NEIL’S MEN
With 27 points to play for, Preston head across the M6 still with hopes of making the play-offs. Lying ninth at the start of play this weekend, they are four adrift of Middlesbrough after two wins in their last three. However, the visitors to Wearside have suffered defeat on the road just three times in the league this season. And while Alex Neil lost key striker and topscorer Jordan Hugill to West Ham United in January, goals have far from been an issue as Tom Barkhuizen and Sean Maguire have both scored eight times.
TEAM NEWS
Chris Coleman will welcome Jake Clarke-Salter back into the equation after the defender missed the latest three matches through suspension. Jonny Williams, however, will be out for the next month with a torn quad while Darron Gibson remains a few weeks away. Max Stryjek may feature on the bench in replace of the suspended Jason Steele. It is hoped that Paddy McNair and Kazenga LuaLua will play some part while there's some doubt over skipper John O'Shea.
Preston, meanwhile, will assess the fitness of full-back Greg Cunningham after he came off at half-time in last Saturday’s match against Fulham. Sean Maguire could start only his second match in four and a half months.
FOLLOW THE ACTION
Cash turnstiles will be in operation for Sunderland fans. There will be no cash turnstiles available for away fans.
If you’re unable to attend the game, we have comprehensive coverage of all the action as it happens across our digital channels.
Nick Barnes and Gary Bennett will be in the commentary booth from 2pm, with minute-by-minute analysis available right here and across social media from Twitter to Instagram.