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...
13. Ahmed Abdullahi - out
Le Bris confirmed last week that Sunderland decided surgery was the best option for their deadline-day signing, having recruited him knowing he was struggling with a long-standing groin complaint. They're confident surgery will solve that for good but it means he won't be able to debut until the festive period. | BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images
14. Jenson Seelt - Out
Seelt is expected to be available for selection again in January providing the last part of his recovery from a major knee injury goes well. Photo: Frank Reid
15. Niall Huggins - out
Won't be available until some time in the new year after a major knee injury. Photo: Frank Reid
16. Tommy Smith - out
Defender is yet to return from a ruptured achilles suffered last year. | Getty Images Photo: Ashley Allen