The dramatic story of the day as Sunderland drop more points against Accrington Stanley

The Black Cats have seen their automatic promotion hopes fade after a disappointing few weeks, although there were some promising signs to come from the side’s 2-2 draw at Hull City in midweek.

And that will give Lee Johnson the confidence that his team can secure a much-needed victory against Accrington Stanley this afternoon.

However, they may have to do so without the influential Aiden McGeady, who is a doubt ahead of the clash.

Accrington, meanwhile, still hold hopes of a play-off place themselves and clinched an impressive win over Doncaster Rovers in midweek.

Our team of writers will be bringing you match updates, analysis and reaction from the Stadium of Light – as Sunderland look to cement their play-off place while applying more pressure on Hull and Peterborough United in the top two.