Sunderland will be hoping they can build on a strong run of form heading into their final 11 matches of this year's campaign, with promotion a serious possibility.
The Black Cats are unbeaten in their last 11 matches, which means they're now sat third in the League One table, and just two points adrift of the automatic promotion places.
One player that has been a regular in the starting XI in recent weeks is defender Callum McFadzean, with the 27-year-old going on to make 24 senior appearances in all competitions this term.
He could soon face competition for his place though, with the likes of Denver Hume set to return from an injury lay-off, which has kept him sidelined since December.
Speaking in a recent interview (quotes sourced from the Sunderland Echo), McFadzean admitted that competition for places is ideal for players, whilst also crediting Jake Vokins for his impact since signing on loan from Southampton.
"That's what you want.
"Some people might think that's not what players want, but it's healthy. We all want to do well, so if someone else is in the team and doing well then I'm ready to step in.
"Jake was excellent the other day. They freshened it up, he came in, did his job, and hats-off to him."
McFadzean went on to admit that he's finding his form, and was keen to play his part in the club's promotion bid this season under the management of Lee Johnson.
"Now I feel like I'm starting to get a little bit of momentum. It helps because the team is getting it as well, and I'm starting to find my feet and get my form.
"More importantly the team are as well, and that's one of my main things - I'm a big team player. If I'm chipping in and helping the team, then that's a big plus."
McFadzean and his Sunderland team-mates are set to return to action this weekend, when they take on struggling Bristol Rovers, as they look to move into the automatic promotion places with a positive result.
The Verdict:
He's got an important role to play in their bid for promotion.
McFadzean has slotted into the team well this season, and I really wouldn't be surprised to see him retain his place in the starting XI for the remainder of this year's campaign.
Even with Jake Vokins and Denver Hume are both strong options to have at full-back, McFadzean has shown that he can make that position his own.
He'll be eager to build on some impressive recent showings as Sunderland head into a season-defining 11 matches of this season, as they target promotion into the Championship.