Sunderland welcome Middlesbrough to the Stadium of Light on Saturday looking to bounce back quickly from their 3-2 defeat to Plymouth Argyle on Saturday.
Joe Edwards’ stoppage-time winner ended Sunderland’s winning start to the campaign but they are still exceptionally well placed after the opening five fixtures. Though currently sitting tenth, Middlesbrough have started solidly with eight points and are widely expected to challenge for the play-off positions as minimum. They drew 1-1 with Preston North End last weekend. Both managers have a number of big decisions to make for the game, with some injury and fitness issues across both camps. Here, we run you through all the early team news...
5. Jonny Howson - doubt, could return
Similar to van den Berg, has been absent of late but Middlesbrough hope that he could be available to play some part this weekend. Time will tell. | Getty Images
6. Ian Poveda - should be available
Poveda was absent from the squad last Saturday with Le Bris revealing afterwards that he had picked up a thigh issue while playing for the U21s against Athletic Club de Bilbao B during the week. Issue isn't serious, so at this stage is very much expected to be back this weekend. | Ian Poveda by Chris Fryatt
7. Salis Abdul Samed - out
Le Bris confirmed yesterday that the midfielder is not yet back in full training after a little knock and so is not fit to make his debut this weekend. Should join full training next week and so has an outside chance of being in the squad for Watford. | Getty Images
8. Lukas Engel - out
Still being assessed for a minor injury and so not expected to be available this weekend. Summer signing Neto Borges has taken his place in the team and done well so far. Photo: Frank Reid