The good news is that Mick McCarthy has no new injury worries ahead of the game, with Darren Byfield eligible having been cup-tied against Brum, but unlikely to feature as he is similarly ruled out of the visit of Sheffield United on Saturday.
One man who is looking to play a part is Matt Piper. Piper, who last appeared for Sunderland in August, is making his latest comeback from injury and may be involved at some point.
Check back here later for all the latest news from the game, which could see us move back to within two points of the play off spots if we pick up three points.