Sunderland v West Ham preview

The Hammers have won only one of their last seven top-flight away games

By James Dall   Last updated: 28th March 2008

Roy Keane Sunderland

Keane: Curbishley clash

Skysports.com prediction: 1-1

Sky Bet odds: Sunderland 11/8, Draw 11/5, West Ham 13/8

One to Watch: Kenwyne Jones

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Sunderland go in search of their first back-to-back Premier League wins of the season as they clash with Alan Curbishley's West Ham United at the Stadium of Light.

The Black Cats hover four points above the relegation zone, in 16th place following last weekend's 1-0 win over Aston Villa, as the season reaches a critical stage.

Roy Keane's men have managed a return of seven points from their previous seven games - form which they will be keen to build on during their run-in.

The Hammers, meanwhile, sit 10th in the table, with an almighty push required if they are to claim a top-six finish.

Alan Curbishley's side have struggled since the turn of the year, winning just four of their 12 league matches and conceding 20 goals.

Youth

But with Curbishley now involving the enthusiasm of youth and Keane's men set to fight tooth and nail for their Premier League survival, Saturday's game should be a combative encounter.

Teenage striker Freddie Sears, who is pushing for his first start, is struggling with a groin injury and faces a late fitness test.

Central defender Matthew Upson is rated as doubtful as he has yet to overcome a troublesome calf injury.

And with Danny Gabbidon (groin) and James Collins (knee) also sidelined, England Under 19 defender James Tomkins could continue in defence after making his debut at Goodison Park last weekend.

Curbishley is still without Julien Faubert (calf), Craig Bellamy (stomach), Matthew Etherington and Lee Bowyer (both groin) while Kieron Dyer (broken leg) is out for the season.

Bobby Zamora, however, is expected to return to the squad after he missed the 1-1 draw at Everton with blisters.

Jones back

Sunderland striker Kenwyne Jones could return to the squad after recovering from a virus, but his Trinidad & Tobago compatriot Carlos Edwards is rated at only 50-50 with a groin problem.

Danny Collins (dead leg) and Nyron Nosworthy (groin) are expected to retain their places in the squad, but Dickson Etuhu (knee) faces several weeks on the sidelines.