READING FC will be looking to enact revenge on Sunderland on their trip to the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
The Royals lost out 3-0 in their earlier meeting with the Black Cats at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
Paul Ince’s team boast a strong home record this campaign, but were heavily beaten when Sunderland travelled to Berkshire in September when a Patrick Roberts double and a goal from Jack Clarke saw them go back with all three points.
Sunderland go into the contest in ninth place, four points ahead of Reading and just two points outside the play-off places.
After losing manager Alex Neil, who departed to join Stoke City earlier in the season, Sunderland have managed to regroup and continue a strong push under the experienced Tony Mowbray who was appointed to take over in August.
Despite their recent run of impressive results, Sunderland have fared better on the road than they have in front of their home supporters.
They have suffered as many defeats (five) as they have picked up victories at home so far after 14 matches.
Sunderland have lost just one of their last nine matches in all competitions, which included an away draw at Craven Cottage against Premier League high flyers Fulham in the FA Cup.
They picked up a point on their visit to Millwall last weekend after Dennis Cirkin netted an 81st minute equaliser to ensure they didn’t lose ground on a fellow top six rival.
Sunderland’s top scorer this season has been Ross Stewart who has bagged 10 goals and three assists in 13 Championship appearances.
Reading’s last visit to the Stadium of Light was in December 2017 where the Royals came away with maximum points.
After the hosts were reduced to 10 men, Reading took the initiative and ensured they put Sunderland to the sword with an opener from Dave Edwards and a brace from Modou Barrow to take a 3-1 victory under Jaap Stam.
