Nigel Clough and Chris Coleman are two managers on the brink of experiencing a heart-wrenching relegation from the Championship.

Both sides are in the bottom three and they meet this weekend knowing that one, or even both of them, could be relegated by five o'clock.

Nigel Clough is under no illusions what to expect at the Stadium of Light this Saturday, but he also saved some words of comfort for his opposite number.

"We're expecting a battle up there, because Chris won't want to go down without a fight," Clough told the Burton Mail. "None of us do. I don't see what much more he (Coleman) could have done. He's gone in there, and I don't know if any other manager would have been able to get them out of trouble. Unfortunately, they've been on a downward spiral."

That may be the case, but both sides have showed glimpses of good form, not least in their respective victories over Derby County. Clough was quick to pay tribute to Sunderland's fighting qualities.

"What they have done in recent weeks, and months, is fight and scrap for everything. They've had a lot of draws, and have probably been close to victories like ourselves. We're expecting a battle first and foremost up there."

Only a win could keep either side up if results go against them. A draw could see both relegated at full time if results featuring Barnsley, Bolton Wanderers and Birmingham City go against them.

The Verdict

There will be a sombre atmosphere by the final whistle for one of these sides, if not both. I'm not sure I agree with Clough though, Sunderland had a lot of time to turn things around after Coleman arrived, but a weak transfer window, coupled with some poor form from key players, has seen them struggle in a league they should have been safe in.