SUNDERLAND have propelled themselves into Sky Bet League One promotion contention with seven wins in their last ten games.

Any clash with the Black Cats is closely-fought, but Phil Parkinson's men have the added incentive of being within touching distance of the top two.

Tomorrow's game promises to be a tough assignment for Oxford United - especially if these players are on form.

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LYNDEN GOOCH

The academy graduate has come into his own this season, with his tally of nine goals already better than any of his previous full campaigns.

Gooch, 24, began the season by scoring a penalty in United's 1-1 draw at the Stadium of Light on the opening day and has not looked back.

He was twice on target in the 3-0 win over Rochdale on Tuesday and has become a regular on the left of Sunderland's front three.

LUKE O'NIEN

Ex-Wycombe man O'Nien has been a virtual ever-present since moving to the Stadium of Light in summer 2018, racking up 89 appearances.

A versatile midfielder who can also operate in defence, his reliability makes him a real asset.

BAILEY WRIGHT

The Australia international has slotted in effortlessly at the heart of Parkinson's back three since joining on loan from Bristol City last month.

Sunderland boast the tightest defence in the division and, while only a fraction of that is down to Wright, three clean sheets in his four games tells its own story.