It's not going to be an easy afternoon for Gasheads on Wearside tomorrow - they've lost their manager and they're up against a wounded animal in Sunderland.

It's hard to see anything other than a heavy defeat for the visitors, they've lost four on the bounce and are down on their luck. Clarke's sacking isn't popular, but it wasn't a surprise. Rumours of a move for Steve Cotterill might produce a negative atmosphere on the terraces though, he's best known for his work with Bristol City.

They're going to be rank outsiders for the visit to the Stadium of Light, but if they are going to defeat Jack Ross' side, or even get a valuable point on the way towards safety, they'll need to be right on top of their game.

Can the XI we've picked muster up enough character to get a point, or maybe all three? Let us know your thoughts.

The on loan Brentford keeper hasn't been to blame for their collapse and he'll surely keep his spot this weekend.

The number one jersey is currently held by Sam Slocombe, farmed out on loan after just a couple of league games.

The 28-year old is quick and athletic and they'll need him to start tapping into his attributes if they're to pull away from the foot of the table.

He'll have to keep Aiden mcGeady quiet tomorrow too, no small task.

On the left, Joe Martin will likely feature. He's an oddity, on loan from League Two Stevenage at League One Gas.

He has England youth honours though and is comfortable on the ball.

They've got to go to the Stadium of Light and defend, with James Clarke one of three centre backs we'd play.

A point would be a huge gain for them tomorrow and if they keep it tight, they'll be okay.

Can 33-year old Craig keep the likes of Maja quiet?

We've got him on the left of a three man central defence, meaning he'll likely have Lyden Gooch to contend with.

Lockyer is the club captain and they'll need his leadership more than ever tomorrow.

Darrell Clarke was a popular figure and the heads are likely to be down at the Stadium of Light. Lockyer needs to lift them.

Sercombe is best known for his spell with Exeter, but his experienced enough now to add value to the Rovers midfield.

He's going to have to be on top form though, if he's going to stop the visitors being overrun by a rampant Sunderland.

The 26-year old is 'one of their own', having come through the youth ranks and remained loyal to the club.

He'll add some legs to the midfield, the youngest of the three and one expect to help bring the ball away when possible.

Upson has been in and out of the side since his summer move from MK Dons, but it's time to keep some consistency and bring him in.

He's experienced and has Championship experience with Yeovil and Millwall.

Up front, it is time for a change. Stefan Payne has been playing regularly, but he's not the answer.

We're not sure Alex Rodman is either, but Payne's had his chance. it's time to try something new.

Nicholls hasn't ben prolific during his stay at the Memorial Ground and the pressing issue in January will doubtless be to replace him, but for now he has to play.

He's scored one League goal and one FA Cup goal in two seasons. You make your own mind up as to whether he's going to trouble Baldwin and Flanagan.