Sunderland are looking at welcoming back two of their injured players this weekend as they prepare to face second placed Luton Town, in one of the biggest matches of the season.

The Black Cats are currently one point adrift of the managerless Hatters with a game in hand to help them catch up. They'll do their promotion hopes the world of good tomorrow if they register a win, opening up a gap and still have the game advantage.

They've been rocked by injuries recently, but Jack Ross has revealed to the Sunderland Echo that he hopes to have at least two of those injured players back for the game, with a couple of others getting close.

"Bryan (Oviedo) and Adam (Matthews) both trained today," Ross said. "Ethan Robson also trained. Glenn Loovens did a bit but not as much."

He then elaborated on the situation around the two defenders he expects to be involved this weekend.

"It was the first day back training for Bryan and Adam so we'll see how they react. Hopefully they'll be back on the grass Friday then we'll see how they're feeling in general. Bryan has been out a bit less time than Adam but Adam's fitness levels are very good anyway."

He isn't going to be able to play winger Duncan Watmore after he picked up a knock recently, which is apparently frustrating the 24-year old.

"He most likely won't be available for the weekend. He might not have been involved anyway after playing against Charlton and then starting against Newcastle. We had a chat on Wednesday and he's OK, just a little bit frustrated."

The Verdict

What a game this is set to be. Lose, and they're suddenly behind Luton by four points. The game in hand won't mean a lot then and they'll have it all to do.

If they win, they're two points clear in second with a game in hand. It's vital they have everyone back and raring to go for this, it could define their season.

The stand in players have done okay, Luke O'Nien has been strong, but it'll give them more balance to have the right players in the right positions.