The view from Sunderland
Sunderland fan James Hunt provides the view from the opposition ahead of Saturday's game at the Stadium of Light.
How are Sunderland fans feeling about our visit?
Not as nervous as we would have been a few months ago. Under Martin O'Neill, only Chelsea and Arsenal have beaten us at home, so I think we're confident of getting a result out of pretty much any side that comes here. It'll also be interesting to see Jordan Henderson back at the SoL. I think he'll get a good reception in what should be a decent game.
What has Martin O'Neill done to turn things around?
He has instilled a new confidence and belief in not only the players, but the fans as well. You can see that in the improved form of many of the players, most notably Lee Cattermole. And he wasn't afraid to hand James McClean a chance. He has been a big player for us over the last couple of months. Essentially, he's a better manager than Steve Bruce in every respect, so naturally has got the team playing far better.
Who should we be worried about?
I would've liked to say Stephane Sessegnon, as he's been our most dangerous player this season - but unfortunately (or fortunately for yourselves) he's suspended. James McClean on the left and Seb Larsson on the right should cause plenty of problems. Larsson's delivery from set pieces is up there with the very best, while McClean is fast, strong and loves to run at defenders. Both have high work rates as well, so should help negate any threat posed by your full-backs.
Who do you rate on our side?
I think Luis Suarez is the most talented player in your squad. Apart from Suarez, there's Steven Gerrard. I'm not sure if he's fit but he still has the ability to inspire his side and lead by example. Finally, I'd say Craig Bellamy. He's a very good player.
Best way to beat Sunderland?
First of all you need to control the middle of the park, which I guess could be true of most games. Secondly, you'll have to find a way of stopping McClean and Larsson, who are likely to create a lot of opportunities if, as expected, O'Neill goes with Fraizer Campbell and Nicklas Bendtner up front. Finally, we have two quite big centre-backs in John O'Shea and Michael Turner, but they aren't the quickest, so the pace of someone like Bellamy could be a big advantage.
Best and worst thing about a trip to the Stadium of Light?
Best: the stadium itself. It's easily one of the best in the league. Worst: the pitch. It's easily one of the worst in the league.
Where can visiting fans get a pint and some food beforehand?
The Colliery Tavern is one a lot of away fans tend to frequent, and isn't far from the stadium. That being said, pretty much anywhere is okay as long as you aren't behaving like a complete idiot, and there's plenty of pubs that do decent food as well.
Best and worst thing about being a Sunderland fan?
The best thing is the passion of the supporters, who are probably amongst the most passionate in the league. At the moment, it also helps that things are going pretty well, and that we have a brilliant manager. The worst thing is the hope. No matter how things are going, there is always some infallible, inexplicable hope that things can be turned around, which can naturally lead to more disappointment.
Prediction?
I think it'll be a repeat of the score we saw at Anfield on the opening day of the season: 1-1.