The view from Sunderland

Firstly, how have this week's developments with Hillsborough been viewed among Sunderland fans?

I think, like everywhere, there's been a lot of shock and sadness at what has been revealed, and anger at the fact that it took 23 years for it to happen. It's difficult to say you feel happy about it when it surrounds something so awful, but it's good for the families who have fought so hard for so long to be proved right - as I think most knew they were - and now we just hope the right people - in the police, the media, the government and so on - are held accountable and we see some justice. There has been some talk of a mark of respect, with ideas such as singing YNWA in the sixth minute, or applause/silence instead, while at the same time balancing it with supporting our team in the first home league game of the season. I'm not sure exactly what's planned, but I'm confident there'll be something fitting organised either by fans or the club.

How are Sunderland fans feeling ahead of this game?

Fairly optimistic, I guess. Weirdly, despite it being mid-September, this is our first home league game, so we'll be looking to get the home campaign off to a good start. We've bought pretty well, and our side looks reasonably strong, so there's no reason we can't win. Having said that, I doubt too many would complain if it's a draw.

Player we should be worried about?

Take your pick. With McClean, Sessegnon and Johnson playing behind Fletcher, we have a fairly impressive attacking quartet, with plenty of pace, tricks and finishing ability. 

Liverpool player you rate?

There's a few who deserve a mention. Joe Allen has had an excellent start to his Liverpool career, Raheem Sterling is obviously talented but very, very raw and then there's Luis Suarez, who is more than capable of producing 'magic'. I'm also really interested to see Nuri Sahin. He was fantastic for Dortmund a couple of years ago, and if he can rediscover that form he'll be a huge player for you. 

Best way to beat Sunderland?

Stifle our wingers, who'll form a large part of our attacking game. At the other end, we have solid centre-backs but not too much pace, while our full-backs, while dependable, aren't really full-backs, so the likes of Sterling and Glen Johnson may find some joy there. 

If you were Sunderland manager for a day...

I'd hand myself a lifetime playing contract, but sadly I'd probably still have to settle for a place on the bench. 

Song we're bound to hear?

O-O-O-O-O-O'Neill. The White Stripes totally ripped us off with that Seven Nation Army song. 

Recommendations for our fans wanting food and a pint?

The Colliery Tavern has usually attracted a fair few away fans, and is close to the ground. In the city centre, there's plenty of Wetherspoons (The Lambton Worm, The Cooper Rose, The William Jameson), as well as lots of other pubs in the area (Fitzgerald's, Revolution to name but two more) that'll have a good pint, decent food and a canny atmosphere. 

Prediction?

Head says a draw, but I'll be optimistic and go 2-1 Sunderland.