Back on the road and tomorrow Sunderland will be travelling to mega-rich Manchester City.
Finances apart, these two clubs are both in similar stages at the moment. They both have potentially great managers at the helm, both on a poor run of form, both have a squad of talented professionals. Plus they each have a fantastic fan base and are both looking to reach that 'next level'.
The real difference is the level they are trying to progress to. Sunderland hope to improve upon their league position and establish themselves as a top half Premier League force. Whereas Man City are looking to move on and have ambitions of crashing the 'top four'.
With the players each club acquired over the summer, they have every chance of doing this.
The Black Cats bought sensibly and brought in the likes of Darren Bent, Lorik Cana, Lee Cattermole and Michael Turner, all of which have played in the Premier League or to that standard.
Money bags City really splashed the cash and raided the top clubs for some of their star players such as Carlos Tevez, Gareth Barry, Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Adebayor.
The mackems have really struggled away from home this season and so far have only picked up four points. Their Sky Blue opponents have picked up the reputation of draw specialists this season and I have a feeling it may continue tomorrow.
Sunderland are missing captain Lorik Cana who was sent off against Aston Villa through the week, so Lee Cattermole may be forced to start after returning early from injury. Defender Michael Turner is a doubt meaning the opportunity is their for either Phil Bardsley or John Mensah to stake a first team claim.
Man City must do without Nigel de Jong, Wayne Bridge and Joleon Lescott but could welcome back Craig Bellamy.
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