Who do Sunderland's rivals play this weekend and how will it affect the relegation picture?

The Black Cats face a daunting trip to Goodison Park, but a thumping win on the road at Crystal Palace has raised hopes that they can back to Wearside with a positive result.

A point would inch them on to the 20 point mark, but what are their closest rivals up to this weekend?

We take a look at how the relegation picture might change....

CRYSTAL PALACE (H) v MIDDLESBROUGH

The weekend's crucial game takes place at Selhurst Park.

A win for Big Sam would take his side level with 'Boro and put the pressure right on Aitor Karanka. However, the Spaniard has built a formidable defence and his team will be happy to sit deep and soak up pressure.

This is the first time Palace have played at home since their implosion against the Black Cats and the atmosphere will be hostile if they don't force the issue. That could play right into the visitor's hands.

Prediction: Draw

HULL CITY (H) v Burnley

Burnley have been superb this season but have not won many points on the road.

Hull are excellent on home turf under Marco Silva and will see this as a big opportunity to continue their recent run of encouraging form.

Prediction: Hull win

LEICESTER CITY (H) v Liverpool

Will their late revival away to Sevilla on Wednesday night spark an upturn in Leciester's Premier League form?

It seems doubtful, given that their good form in the group staged was never matched come the weekend.

Their opponents have struggled ever since their 2-2 draw with Sunderland at the start of 2017 but were superb against Tottenham last time out. Sadio Mane is back and operating at the peak of his powers, which is a big advantage against the Foxes' ageing and out of sorts backline.

Prediction: Liverpool win

SWANSEA CITY (A) v Chelsea

Swansea look to pulling clear of trouble under the impressive Paul Clement, looking organised off the ball and far more confident on it.

A trip to Stamford Bridge will surely be one step too far, however, Antonio Conte's side marching towards the title.

Prediction: Chelsea win

BOURNEMOUTH (A) v West Brom

Leaking goals at the back ever since Nathan Ake returned from his loan spell to Stamford Bridge, the injury to Callum Wilson has left them without firepower at the other end.

They remain a team capable of beating anyone but a trip to the Hawthorns look daunting, particularly with the hosts at full strength and playing well.

The Cherries should have enough to stay up but this weekend could make them a little more anxious.

Prediction: Away win

How those results would affect the table:

Sunderland 20

Crystal Palace 20

Leicester City 21

Hull City 23

Middlesbrough 23

Swansea City 24

Bournemouth 26