Sunderland might not be playing this weekend because of the international break, but our promotion rivals are all in action.
The first game of the weekend takes place at the Banks’s Stadium where Barnsley take on Walsall.
Daniel Stendel’s side have been stuttering recently with just two wins from their last six - including four games that they have failed to score in.
That being said, the Tykes have kept six straight clean sheets - a very impressive run!
Walsall lost last weekend at the Stadium of Light but were no pushover and nearly held a two-goal lead at one stage in the game before succumbing to Sunderland’s quality.
League-leaders Luton Town are at home to play-off chasing Doncaster Rovers this weekend and a victory would see them jump to 83 points.
Donny got themselves a great point last weekend against Barnsley, and a similar result this weekend would keep them in the driving seat for the final play-off place.
Our opponents in the Checkatrade Trophy Final, Portsmouth, are also in action this weekend as they take on Shrewsbury Town at Montgomery Waters Meadow.
After a poor run in the early part of 2019, Pompey finally look like they are finding their early season form and have won their past two games.
The other side in the play-offs, Charlton Athletic, are not in action this weekend due to international call-ups.
So, what does this all mean then for Sunderland?
Well, if results go our way we could be two points behind Barnsley and just seven behind Luton with two games in hand.
Of course, if Barnsley, Luton and Pompey win we could be sat in fourth place, five points behind Barnsley and 10 behind leaders Luton.
So, while the Black Cats aren’t playing this weekend, there is still plenty to keep an eye on!
