George Honeyman is back in training ahead of Saturday’s mouth-watering clash with AFC Wimbledon.
The captain hasn’t featured the Lads’ December trip to Portsmouth, but he’s made a timely return to the fold, with a busy six-week period providing an opportunity to pick up a wealth of points.
Six points currently separate the Black Cats from top spot, but Jack Ross’ side have two games in hand over leaders Luton Town.
And after establishing the foundations for a title tilt, Honeyman urged players and fans alike to come together and achieve something special between now and the end of the campaign.
“I returned to training on Monday and I couldn’t be happier, as it’s been frustrating watching from the sidelines and I feel like I’ve missed a lot of games,” said the skipper.
“Credit to the boys, though, they’ve held it down and kept pace with the teams at the top during a busy period, and we’re ready to kick on.”
He continued: “We had a little break last weekend, which is something you don’t often get, and it’ll serve us well because the games are coming thick and fast.
“Everyone is refreshed, and I imagine the fans are as well, so we can’t wait to get back to the Stadium of Light this weekend and pick up three points.
“We’ve had a good season so far, but we’re now reaching the run-in and we have to take care of business.”
Tickets for Saturday’s game are on sale now. To secure your seat, click here, call 0371 911 1973 or visit the Stadium of Light ticket office.