Sunderland will travel to Britannia Stadium to face Stoke City, looking to get full three points and continue their revival under new manager Gus Poyet. Stoke City under Mark Hughes are just three points and two places above them so both the team will know the importance of three points here.

Both the teams have earned two victories each; but the difference is, the Stoke City took 11 games to achieve it, while the Black Cats took only four games.

Stoke have earned just 1 win in last 10 games in all competitions, but they’ve been getting goals – something they lacked under Tony Pulis. They scored 3 against Swansea in their last match while hit the back of the net twice at Old Trafford as well.

They’re up against a team that has the poor defensive record in the league. Sunderland have conceded 22 goals in the league though under Poyet things are just looking to get back into proper shape. They won 3 games in all competitions, and defeated Manchester City 1-0 at home before the international break. Therefore, expect Sunderland to get something out of this game and are 11/4 with Ladbrokes to register a victory against Stoke.

Team News:

Striker Kenwyne Jones (shoulder problem) is doubtful for this tie, as he is struggling with his fitness, while Marc Wilson (stiff hip) could also miss out – both injured on international duty.

Defender Andrea Dossena and midfielder Lee Cattermole remain unavailable as they complete three-match suspensions for Sunderland.

Prediction: 2-2, At home Stoke will be looking to earn full three points but expect the resurgent Sunderland to give a strong fight back.

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