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:
1. GK: Anthony Patterson
Was beaten from two set-pieces against Watford in a game where Sunderland didn’t concede many other chances. Photo: Martin Swinney
2. RB: Lynden Gooch
Has slotted back into a right-back position due to the squad’s defensive injuries, with Trai Hume moving into a more central position. Photo: Frank Reid
3. CB: Trai Hume
Has moved into a centre-back position in recent weeks, following Danny Batth’s season-ending injury. Photo: Frank Reid
4. CB: Luke O’Nien
Continues to play as a centre-back with Batth and Dan Ballard unavailable. Was the oldest player in the starting XI against Watford at just 28. Photo: Frank Reid