Sunderland host Aston Villa on Saturday knowing that a victory could mean relegation for the West Midlands side.
Despite half of the season still remaining, Villa look destined to be plying their trade in the Championship next season, and now Sunderland are looking to make sure their fate is not the same.
Who will start?
Not only did Sunderland lose their match with Liverpool on Wednesday, but they lost another player through injury as Jack Rodwell suffered his ninth injury of 2015. The midfielder limped off during the 1-0 defeat and is unlikely to feature against Villa.
Sunderland have already reportedly agreed a deal for Lamine Kone from Lorient but his transfer will not be completed for Saturday's game. Sebastian Coates is likely to partner John O'Shea in central defence if the duo can shake off knocks they recently picked up.
Wes Brown is the only other fit senior central defender if they cannot make the game, with youngster Tom Beadling also on standby.
At the other end of the pitch, Sunderland don't have too many concerns when it comes to injuries and suspensions. However, Jeremain Lens may be lucky to not be banned after a challenge on Mamadou Sakho in midweek could have easily lead to a red card being brandished.
Sunderland will be happy to know Villa's main threat of recent weeks, Jordan Ayew, is ruled out due to suspension.
Potential formation
Sam Allardyce will feel like anything other than a victory for Sunderland is not good enough. Being the home side and seeing how poor Villa have defended in recent weeks, Allardyce is likely to play an attacking team.
The usual 4-3-3 is likely to stay in place with Steven Fletcher leading the line and Duncan Watmore and Fabio Borini down the flanks, offering plenty of support.
Lee Cattermole will no doubt play as the anchor in the midfield, allowing Ola Toivonen and Yann M'Vila to support the front men.
A win for the Black Cats will see them move seven points clear of the bottom, yet it won't be enough to see them out of the relegation zone.
Predicted XI (4-3-3): Mannone; Jones, Coates, O'Shea, van Aanholt; Cattermole, Toivonen, M'Vila; Watmore, Fletcher, Borini.