Sunderland return to Premier League action on Wednesday evening as the Black Cats travel to Middlesbrough (KO 7.45pm).
The highly-anticipated Tees-Wear clash is being billed as a ‘must-win’ outing for both sides, with just three points separating them in the top-flight table.
Sunderland weren’t in action over the weekend due to Arsenal’s involvement in the Emirates FA Cup, but Boro did take to the field against AFC Bournemouth.
It was a chance to extend their advantage over the Black Cats – currently standing at three points – but an early red card for Gaston Ramirez set the tone as Eddie Howe’s side ran riot to clinch a 4-0 win.
Since taking charge, former Black Cat Steve Agnew is yet to earn a victory with Boro’s last league success coming on the 17 December.
But back on Wearside fortunes haven’t been much better, with David Moyes’ men winning just once in 2017 – a 4-0 win over Crystal Palace.
Last time out the Lads secured a point against West Ham United as the return of Wahbi Khazri instilled fresh vigour into the Black Cats’ attacking ranks.
The Tunisian was outstanding from start to finish and capped his performance with a goal, and despite the Hammers hitting back to earn a point there were positives to be taken.
Khazri, 26, will be hoping to retain his place in the starting XI but Fabio Borini will be knocking on the door after striking late on to earn a point against Slaven Bilic’s side.
Billy Jones is expected to return despite being stretchered off last weekend, but Bryan Oviedo (hamstring), Jan Kirchhoff (knee), Paddy McNair and Duncan Watmore (knee) remain sidelined.
Seb Larsson continues to serve a suspension.
Meanwhile, former Black Cat Grant Leadbitter could feature after returning to training following a hamstring problem, but former Barcelona stopper Victor Valdes will miss out due to a rib injury.
Martin De Roon could also be involved after overcoming a knee injury, but Ramirez is banned.
The last meeting between the two sides came in August as a Christian Stuani doubled downed the Black Cats, but Boro have won just one of their last 10 games against their north-east counterparts.
A run Sunderland need to extend if they hope to produce yet another great escape.
OTHER INFO
Tickets for tonight’s game are SOLD OUT.
Supporters are advised that the free buses provided by Sunderland AFC to and from Middlesbrough for tomorrow night’s game are now full.
But we have every base covered with extensive coverage on safc.com and on Twitter by following @SunderlandAFC.
Nick Barnes and Gary Bennett will be ON AIR from 7pm.