Sunderland's League One clash with Bristol Rovers during the international break is likely to be postponed, according to The Northern Echo's chief sports writer Scott Wilson.

The two sides, who are both in the chasing pack just outside the top six, is currently scheduled for Saturday the 16th of November at the Memorial Stadium.

The pair are currently only separated by goal difference, with Sunderland seventh in the table and Rovers two places below them in ninth.

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It appears their clash is likely to be rearranged, however, due to a number of Black Cats players being called up for international duty.

Jon McLaughlin has been named in Steve Clarke's Sunderland squad for the upcoming games against Cyprus and Kazakhstan, while Wilson has suggested that defenders Conor McLaughlin and Tom Flanagan are likely to be called up to the Northern Ireland squad.

Wilson has indicated that with Burge injured and the trio out on international duty, the Black Cats' trip to the Memorial Stadium looks likely to be postponed.

Sunderland beat struggling Southend United on Saturday to give new boss Phil Parkinson his second victory since taking charge.

The North East club face Leicester City U21s in the EFL Trophy this evening before taking on Gillingham in the First Round of the FA Cup.

The Verdict

You'd think that if Wilson is correct and both Conor McLaughlin and Flanagan are called up to the Northern Ireland side then the EFL will indeed look to postpone the meeting with Rovers.

That may not be a bad thing as it will give Parkinson, who didn't get a pre-season as he replaced Jack Ross during the season, more time to work with his players.

Despite some poor early results, the Black Cats have looked to play more positive football under their new manager and do seem to be moving in the right direction.