Fratton Park is the venue for Sunderland’s trip to take on Portsmouth in a match that gets both side’s League One Christmas schedule underway.

Both teams will have to navigate their way past four games in the space of 11 days, in a period that will go a long way to defining their respective seasons.

It is a clash between two of the favourites for promotion back to the Championship, with the two side’s occupying two of the top three positions in the division.

Kenny Jackett’s men head into the top-of-the-table clash on the back of a two-game run without a win.

Pompey have only lost once in their last ten matches, however, and find themselves top of the league, four points clear of second-place Luton Town.

Jack Ross’ side, meanwhile, will be looking to close the gap to the leaders to two points with a win.

The Black Cats have not lost in their last ten matches, recording seven wins in that time.

A victory on Saturday would be their third in a row heading into their match with Bradford on Boxing day in front of a record crowd for the third tier.

Ahead of the game, Sky Sports procured the help of David Pruttonto predict the outcome of the clash between the two sides.

The pundit and EFL presenter said: “The last time these two sides faced each other it was eight years ago in the Premier League, and Portsmouth have even dropped as low as League Two in that time.

“Both, however, appear to be back on the up now.

“Sunderland are five points adrift of the leaders heading into the weekend but have a couple of games in hand, and a victory at Fratton Park would be a big statement of intent.

“But I'm backing a draw here, 2-2.”

It is set to be a vivacious clash between the two sides who both need the points for their own various reasons.

The verdict

This is certainly going to be a mouth-watering clash between two of League One’s heavy hitters.

It is one of the games of the weekend, in any division, and has the potential to be an absolute classic.

I think both teams will score, and I can see Sunderland edging this one, ever so slightly.

Their respective form is better at present out of the two teams, and it might just be a narrow win for Jack Ross’ side.

But don’t count against Kenny Jackett, as his side could turn up and blitz the encounter.

It’s too close to call, but I think Sunderland will edge it.