Mikael Mandron makes a Sunderland prediction as he bids to heap misery on his former side

Mandron, who came through the youth ranks at the Academy of Light before going on to fashion a strong career in the lower reaches of the EFL, is expected to feature for the Gills against his former employers.

And despite the Priestfield side having already beaten the Black Cats once this term, Mandron is under no illusions as to the scale of the challenge facing his side on Saturday, December 7.

Indeed, he believes that Sunderland will be focused on attacking when they head to Kent - with Phil Parkinson’s side looking to end a poor run of form which has seen the newly-appointed manager win just two of his opening 11 games.

And Mandron insists that his current side will make it a difficult afternoon for the Wearsiders - with Gillingham full of confidence after a run of form which has lose just one of their last six in all competitions.

“I expect Sunderland to come here and come at us,” said the forward.

“Right now, for us, it's a good time to play anybody.

“We are going into Saturday's game full of confidence. When you put a run together it's always good for the team, as are the clean sheets.

“We have got a busy period coming up and it's important we get as many points as we can.”