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...
9. Marcus Forss - out
Hasn't yet featured this season due to injury but Carrick has confirmed recently that he is back training. Not expected to be back in the squad this weekend - likely to come too soon unless Carrick spring a surprise. | Getty Images Photo: Owen Humphreys
10. Dael Fry - out
Carrick said at the weekend that the academy graduate was a little further behind Forss, van den Berg and Howson in his recovery. Means he won't be involved at this stage. Matt Clarke and summer signing George Edmunson have been deputising in the centre of defence, while Luke Ayling offers another experienced option should Carrick wish to go with Anfernee Dijksteel at right back instead. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
11. Darragh Lenihan - out
Has been a long-term absentee with an ankle injury and while thought to be closing in on a return, this weekend comes too soon. Photo: Stu Forster
12. Aji Alese - out
Alese is expected to be absent until after the November international break with an ankle injury. | PA