Sunderland face a huge game against QPR tomorrow as they look for their first home win in 2017.

The Black Cats have endured a dismal start to life in the Championship and sit 23rd in the table, with defensive issues a major concern for Simon Grayson.

Incredibly, they have yet to keep a clean sheet all season and conceding five away to Ipswich recently prompted the manager to make significant personnel changes against Preston last time out.

Experienced centre-back John O'Shea came in for his first start of the season, with Lamine Kone dropping out. Speaking to the Northern Echo, Grayson explained his thinking behind the decision.

John's got experience and leadership qualities – you don't play for Manchester United, your country and this club for the number of years he has unless you're a good character.”

The Ireland international played well at Deepdale and seems sure to start again tomorrow.

As for Kone, his form has dropped in recent weeks after what had been a fairly reasonable start, but Grayson refused to blame the Ivorian for Sunderland's woes.

I wouldn't say he's struggling in terms of making a huge amount of mistakes, it's just a general problem we've got as a team.”

The Verdict

Sunderland have major problems as a team and conceding goals is one of the biggest. Lamine Kone had to be dropped after his recent showings but there are many others who aren't playing well enough either.

John O'Shea will bring experience and that could be vital tomorrow in particular, with the severe pressure that the side face at home.

Their record at the Stadium of Light is embarrassing, and it has to change tomorrow. QPR are without a win away from home and didn't travel well last season either.

What do you think Sunderland fans? Who should play in defence? Can you beat QPR? Let us know in the comments below.