Sky Sports pundit David Prutton, formerly of Leeds United and Nottingham Forest, as given his verdict on Sunderland's opening game against Lee Bowyer's Charlton Athletic.

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Jack Ross will take charge of his first competitive match in England, with last season's losing play-off semi finalists Charlton Athletic the opponents.

The last eight occasions the two have met have been top flight matches, with Darren Bent and Darren Ambrose settling the last meeting between the two in 2005, earning the Addicks a 2-0 win.

Prutton, writing for Sky Sports website, thinks that tomorrow's game might go the same way, albeit by a smaller margin.

"It's been a dismal couple of years for Sunderland, it's as simple as that. They now find themselves in League One and that will really sink in on Saturday. Charlton just fell short in the play-offs last season and there's still some uncertainty at the club with Lee Bowyer still being left in caretaker charge. However, I think the Addicks could go to the Stadium of Light and nick this one."

Lyle Taylor has been suggested as a first goal scorer, with 1-0 the score line of choice from Prutton. Taylor was the subject of interest from both clubs in the summer but eventually chose to remain in London after leaving Wimbledon, snubbing Sunderland.

They'll have Charlie Wyke amongst their ranks, he's arrived on Wearside this week instead of Montserrat international Taylor.

The Verdict

Got to disagree with Prutton here, I can't see Sunderland slipping up on the opening day. This has got a draw written all over it, neither side will want to give too much away as both hope for a top six finish at the very least.

Come the end of the season, this could well be a stereotypical six pointer and the final league table will likely suggest a point is a good result for both clubs.