Only three points separate Sunderland and Liverpool in ninth and sixth heading into their Stadium Of Light fixture on Wednesday night in what should be a thrilling clash.
Liverpool have won just once against newly promoted side this season, winning 1-0 against Burnley in what was an unconvincing victory.
Manager Arne Slot will be without midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai is suspended for the clash after being sent off for denying a clear goal scoring opportunity to Manchester City striker Erling Haaland.
Things get worse for Slot when it comes to the defence however, with Joe Gomez (Groin/Hip/Pelvic Injury), Giovanni Leoni (knee), Conor Bradley (knee) and Jeremie Frimpong (Thigh Injury) all out of action.
With Szoboszlai filling in at right back, the likes of Calvin Ramsay and Curtis Jones may step in to replace him for the clash in the North East where the champions’ backline looks shakier than ever.
Finally, in attack Alexander Isak (Calf/Shin/Heel Injury) is still missing as fellow summer signing Hugo Ekitike who has 10 Premier League goals in just 22 appearances this season.
Sunderland are the last remaining team unbeaten at home in the Premier League and have failed to score only once in the league at home this season in a statistic that will worry The Reds.