Darren Bent’s first return to Wearside since his switch to Aston Villa has dominated the headlines, but Steve Bruce will be more concerned with trying to find what would only be his third home win of 2011.

Alex McLeish is coming off the back of two losses; one far from unexpected, the other extremely disappointing. He’s a man that can’t really afford a third straight loss.

After his wrongful dismissal was rightfully rescinded, Chris Herd keeps his place in the starting line-up. Assistant manager, Peter Grant, has revealed that Herd is potential long term solution to our lack of defensive substance in the middle of the park.

After his escapades on the M1 led to his suspension, Barry Bannan has been replaced by Emile Heskey. Fabian Delph has recovered from his virus and is on the bench. Steve Bruce names an unchanged side from his 2-0 victory at Bolton.

Castrol Football Prediction

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