Last updated: 13:05, February 9, 2010
Sunderland news
Sunderland are one of the most successful clubs in English football after winning six First Division titles and two FA Cup, but trophies have been harder to come by in recent seasons.
The Black Cats as they are now known, have been ‘yo-yoing’ between the Championship and the Premiership over the past few seasons but the appointment of Roy Keane as manager has changed things.
Keane immediately took Sunderland into the Premiership in his first season and managed to keep them there in the 2007/08 campaign when they avoided the drop with games to spare.
Sunderland moved to the 49,000 capacity Stadium of Light in 1997 after 99 years at their old ground Roker Park.
Prominent players in the squad for 2008/09 season include: Kenwyne Jones, El-Hadji Diouf and Steed Malbranque, while heroes of the past include Kevin Phillips, Michael Gray and Niall Quinn.
Sunderland duo John Mensah and Kieran Richardson remain doubts for boss Steve Bruce ahead of the trip to Portsmouth.
Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn has given his full backing to boss Steve Bruce and has urged the fans to also support him.
Sunderland could be without Jordan Henderson for a lengthy spell after the midfielder picked up an ankle injury against Wigan.
Sunderland came from behind to land a share of the points with Wigan in an entertaining game at the Stadium of Light.
Steve Bruce says he is ready to hand Alan Hutton his Sunderland debut against Wigan on Saturday afternoon.
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has blasted reports suggesting he has had a bust up with Black Cats midfielder Kieran Richardson.
Steve Bruce has revealed that defender John Mensah is a big doubt for Sunderland's game against Wigan with a hamstring injury.
Sunderland new signing Matthew Killgallon believes Saturday's game against Wigan represents a pivotal moment in the Black Cats season.
Sunderland striker Benjani is hoping to get among the goals at his new club following his loan move from Manchester City.
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has insisted the arrival of Benjani does not spell the beginning of the end for Kenwyne Jones on Wearside.
Sunderland's swoop to take Manchester City striker Benjani on loan until the summer has now been confirmed by the Premier League.
Alan Hutton is delighted with his move from Tottenham to Sunderland and is determined to win a place in the Black Cats side.
Steve Bruce says he was happy with Sunderland's commitment against Stoke but admits the quality was lacking.
Steve Bruce says he hopes 'common sense prevails' to allow Benjani to become a Sunderland player later on today.
Sunderland's poor run of form continued as they laboured to a turgid 0-0 draw with Stoke at the Stadium Of Light.
