Sunderland appear likely to secure a spot in the Championship play-offs, but they are aiming to develop a winning streak, starting with their upcoming match against Millwall at the Stadium of Light.
With only eight matches remaining, the Black Cats are unlikely to bridge the 11-point gap to the top two teams.
Nevertheless, Sunderland are comfortably placed 12 points inside the play-off spots and will seek to bounce back after suffering a 3-0 defeat at Coventry before the international break.
Millwall travel to Wearside following a 1-0 win at home against Stoke, boosting their slim chances of a top six finish.
However, the London team faces a tough task ahead as they aim to close the six-point difference to the play-off positions.
Team news
Sunderland welcome back defender Leo Hjelde from a minor injury. However, Dennis Cirkin and Enzo Le Fee (both hamstring) are still sidelined, along with Ian Poveda, Salis Abdul Samed, Ahmed Abdullahi, and Jayden Danns who are in the Black Cats' treatment room.
Millwall will be without attackers Femi Azeez (hamstring) and Camiel Neghli (ankle), while striker Macauley Langstaff (leg) is training again but lacks match fitness. Midfielder George Honeyman (groin) remains uncertain after missing the last game against Stoke.
The stats
Three of the last four encounters between Sunderland and Millwall ended in a 1-1 draw.
Five of Sunderland’s recent seven home matches saw goals from both sides.
Sunderland suffered three defeats in their last six games.
Millwall claimed victory in six of their last 11 league fixtures.
In six of Millwall’s last seven league matches, fewer than three goals were scored.
Prediction
Millwall have avoided defeat in nine of their last 12 Championship games, making them a strong contender to secure at least a draw against Sunderland.
The Lions have improved their away form recently, earning 13 points from their last seven road trips.
Millwall's solid defense, with the lowest goals against tally (39) outside the top six, could pose difficulties for Sunderland, who are dealing with injuries and possibly lacking confidence following their 3-0 loss at Coventry.
Sunderland's last home game ended in a 1-1 draw against Preston, indicating they might need more time before getting back to winning ways.