Already 43,000 fans are set to go to the match, with more expected to walk up to the ground on matchday tomorrow.

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It's the sort of loyalty and passion which was originally a key factor in the current manager deciding to come to Wearside.

And he said today: "I think it's fantastic that they are coming in such numbers and it's up to us to make sure that doesn't go unrewarded.

"At some clubs, after you have been beaten by a scoreline as bad as something like 7-1, you would expect the crowds might tail off.

"But I am really pleased we'll have such a big crowd tomorrow because it is going to be important to us.

"And I think it shows that our fans are appreciative of the challenges we are facing this season.

"We are committed to staying in the Premiership and building from there but we always knew it was going to be tough and it is clear to me that our fans realise that as well.

"They had a big influence on the game and I'm hoping it will be the same again tomorrow – the fans having a great game, the players putting in a good performance but this time ending with us getting the three points."