So this could well be it. Sunderland take on Everton tomorrow night in a match that could have huge ramifications across the whole of the North East.
A victory for the Black Cats will guarantee their Premier League status for next season, perhaps more importantly also securing at least a £100 million payout from the new TV deal that comes into effect.
Just to make the reward for a victory that little bit sweeter, a win will also confine arch rivals Newcastle United to the Championship for the second time in seven years – whilst Sunderland will continue their run in the top flight for at least a tenth consecutive season.
Lamine Kone is available for selection after picking up a knock against Chelsea on Saturday, but Billy Jones remains injured. Sam Allardyce is, therefore, likely to name an unchanged starting lineup for the sixth game in a row.
Seamus Coleman and Gareth Barry could return from injury for Everton, whilst Ramiro Funes Mori is likely to return to the team following the completion of his suspension.
Everton have only won one of their last nine games and have lost five, whilst the Black Cats have won two and lost just one of their last nine. That one loss was against champions Leicester City.
With Roberto Martinez seemingly on his way out of Goodison Park, Sunderland fans will be hoping that the Toffees players aren’t going to put up too much of a fight – particularly if the Black Cats play with the same intensity they did against Chelsea.
The game is far from a forgone conclusion, however. Sunderland have only won once against Everton at the Stadium of Light in the last 10 meetings, losing five of those games. Furthermore, the Black Cats spectacularly capitulated on Merseyside earlier this season with Everton thrashing Sunderland 6-2 at Goodison Park.
Nerves will be jangling in the crowd throughout the game, let’s hope that the players put us at ease with a fine performance and end the relegation battle as soon as they can.
