We have added a new name to our ever-expanding roster of writers in fhr form of Nick Holden. Who's he? Well let him explain right here...

This weeks edition of Make Your Case see's Karl Jones go head-to-head with a new name but a familiar face, it's host of the Wise Men Say Podcast, Stephen Goldsmith as they look at whether or not a Director of Football is even necessary at Sunderland.

Defender travels to the North East to undergo medical with Di Canio's side.

With the season drawing to a close and survival finally looking likely, lets take a depressing saunter through the soul-crushing reality of it.

As if writing about tactics when following Sunderland wasn't difficult enough, Monday's visit of Stoke stretched capabilities to the limits. Surviving through several heart attacks and one of the most nervy games in recent memory, here's our view...

Sunderland couldn’t get the win which would have virtually guaranteed survival this season but given the circumstances a point at full time is much better than how things could have turned out after the first half.

Every week we recap and rate the performances of all Sunderland players involved and dish out some ratings and comment. For instant analysis on those in red and white today, here's our player ratings!

John O'Shea's second-half equaliser cancelled out Jonathan Walters' early goal, meaning Sunderland are still not out of the relegation shake up.

The teamsheets are in for tonight's crunch clash against Stoke City at The Stadium of Light. A win should see safety mere fingertips away, but Stoke won't be feeling quite safe yet either.