With five games to go, the Black Cats remain in the top three but have seen their promotion hopes fade after a poor run of form.
Indeed, the play-offs are now the most likely route for Sunderland as they aim to achieve promotion.
And ahead of the clash, Lee Johnson has some key decisions to make when it comes to team selection.
His options have been depleted further in recent weeks with some fresh injury blows, but the likes of Carl Winchester and Jack Diamond will also be pushing for starts as the side head to the KCOM Stadium.
So what team would our writers pick? Here, Mark Donnelly names the side he would field against the Tigers – with FOUR changes from the weekend defeat at Blackpool:
1. GK: Lee Burge
While the Sunderland stopper may have partially been at fault for Blackpool's goal on Saturday, it would be a surprise if Burge was sacrificed given he has put in some strong performances of late. Photo: FRANK REID 2020
2. RB: Max Power
With Conor McLaughlin ruled-out after undergoing a hernia operation, Power may be asked to deputise at right-back - having put in some good performances in this position across the season. Photo: FRANK REID 2019
3. CB: Bailey Wright
With Sunderland's defensive options depleted, Wright looks set to start at the back - despite only recently returning from injury. Photo: FRANK REID 2019
4. CB: Luke O'Nien
O'Nien looks likely to continue in the heart of the defence given Tom Flanagan, Conor McLaughlin, Dion Sanderson and Jordan Willis are all ruled-out. Photo: FRANK REID 2019