The Black Cats have to win to stand a chance of finishing in the play-offs, while hoping either Coventry or Millwall drop points.
Sunderland did come from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Watford at the Stadium of Light last time out and have now taken 22 points from losing positions this season.
Mowbray still has several first-team players unavailable for the fixture against Preston, yet his side are on an eight-match unbeaten run.
Here’s our predicted line-up for the match:
5. LB: Dennis Cirkin
Scored twice from left-back at West Brom and also played his part in Sunderland’s late equaliser against Watford. Photo: Frank Reid
6. CM: Dan Neil
Has started the side’s last 14 league games in the holding midfield position, with Mowbray keeping faith in the 21-year-old. Photo: Martin Swinney
7. CM: Pierre Ekwah
Has started the side's last two matches and broke up play well before his substitution against Watford - when Sunderland were looking to get more attacking players on the pitch. Photo: Frank Reid
8. RW: Amad
Wasn’t able to find his best quality against Watford but remains one of the side’s biggest attacking threats. Photo: Frank Reid