The Wear-Tees rivalry renews on Saturday at the Stadium of Light in the Championship as Sunderland face Middlesbrough.
The Black Cats under Le Beis have won four and lost one of their opening five league games and currently sit second in the league behind West Brom.
The Teessiders, who are managed by Michael Carrick, are currently 10th in the division following last weekend’s draw against Preston North End at the Riverside Stadium.
Ahead of the game and for a little bit of fun, we take a look at a combined XI of Sunderland and Middlesbrough players, plus bench and head coach pick!
13. SUB: Luke O'Nien
Sunderland's club captain would more than likely be disappointed to miss out and would definitely be pushing Matt Clarke to start. | Frank Reid Photo: Frank Reid
14. SUB: Luke Ayling
Pipped to a starting spot by Trai Hume, the experienced Luke Alying would be an able deputy. | Getty Images
15. SUB: George Edmundson
The former Ipswich Town man also takes a spot on our combined Sunderland and Middlesbrough squad. Photo: Michael Regan
16. SUB: Tommy Conway
Another highly-talented player unlucky to miss out on our combined Sunderland and Middlesbrough starting XI. | Getty Images