Our friends the Smoggies are the visitors to the Stadium of Light this weekend. The two Northeast rivals need to win with the winner of this derby also securing their premiership status for next season.
The game will see Julio Arca return to the SOL for the first time since joining Boro for £1.75m.
Sunderland Team News:
Roy Keane is expected to ring the changes after last weekend`s horror show against Newcastle.
Russ Wallace could make his first appearance since January after scoring three for the reserves.
Sunderland are without Dickson Etuhu (Knee), Darren Ward (Back) and Bardsley (Cartilage).
Jonny Evans (Hamstring) and Dwight Yorke (Knee) could return but both are rated 50-50.
Player to watch: Kieran Richardson
After starting on the bench last weekend, Kieran will be out to impress.
Boro Team News:
Goalkeepers Mark Schwarzer (Back) and Russ Turnbull (Back) are rated 50-50 to be fit.
Boro are without O`Neil (Knee Ligament), Mido (Groin), Jones (Wrist) and Huth (Ankle).
Player to watch: Julio Arca
Our favourite Argentinean returns to the SOL for the first time since joining Boro. Hope he has a stinker!
Match Facts & Stats
In our last 6 league meetings with Boro on Wearside we have Won 1, Lost 4 and Drew 1.
Last time in the league at the Stadium of Light we lost 0 – 3
Ref Watch:
Steve Bennett
Match Prediction:
1-1 Draw
Next Fixtures:
Bolton V Sunderland
15:00 Saturday 3rd of May 2008
