Whilst most of the country will have their eyes on the FA Cup third-round action, Sunderland fans will be focused on another League One fixture. 

Having been knocked out in the second round of the cup by Walsall, a trip to the Valley to face Charlton Athletic in the league is on the cards instead.

The Black Cats have experienced an impressive turnaround this season under new owner Stewart Donald and new manager Jack Ross, with the pair injecting new life into the club and galvanising what was a disenfranchised fanbase.

A win against Lee Bowyer's side would see them jump into the top-two at the expense of Luton Town and still have another game in hand on the Hatters.

A loss, however, would see the Addicks move to within a point of the Black Cats.

After a busy Christmas period, Ross will have a few selection dilemmas ahead of the trip, but we are here to help.

Here is the XI we think he SHOULD pick...

Of course, McLaughlin should start in goal.

He has arguably been the best goalkeeper in the league this year and keeping that stability between the sticks is a must.

With Adam Mathews still injured it makes sense to leave O'Nien at right-back.

The summer signing has become a big hit with the fans over the last few months and it is easy to see why with his tireless running and quality on the ball.

Baldwin should keep his spot at centre-back.

The Black Cats defence has been impressive so far this season and that is largely down to the strong partnership formed at the heart of the defence.

Therefore, Flanagan will continue alongside him.

Arriving on a free from Burton in the summer, he has proven to be a terrifically shrewd signing and one that the rest of the third-tier will envy.

Reece James should keep his place.

Bryan Oviedo looks set to leave the club in January in order to free up space on the wage bill and it is time Ross starts preparing for life without him.

In defensive midfield, Power should start.

Having recently completed a permanent move to the North East club from Wigan he will be in celebratory mood and on his day, is good enough to make the difference.

Partnering him should be Dylan McGeouch.

With Lee Cattermole suspended (shock horror) there will be a big void and although the summer signing is not of the same standard, he is the best available option.

On the right-wing, Duncan Watmore should replace Aiden McGeady.

McGeady has ran himself into the ground over the Christmas period and it would be a sensible move from Ross to replace him.

Gooch should be moved back into attacking midfield.

He has thrived in that position and after signing a new deal with the club will be keen to carry on his form for the rest of the season.

Maguire's return has come at an ideal time.

The summer-signing was arguably the Black Cats' best player before his injury and now that he has returned should be a permanent starter again.

It would stir the pot a bit, but Charlie Wyke should lead the line.

With a lot of speculation surrounding breakout star Josh Maja, taking him out of the XI would be sensible.

It also would not do any harm for him to prepare for life without the 20-year-old.