SUNDERLAND may be licking their lips at the prospect of this one.

They have won their last three Premier League home games 2-0 while Everton have had a tiring midweek trip and a deflating defeat in the UEFA Cup. Sunderland know they must win their homes games to stay up, given how poor their away form is.

Defence

Sunderland broke the British transfer record for a goalkeeper when they bought Craig Gordon for £9million from Hearts – and his form could determine whether they stay up or not.

Confident and athletic, the Scottish international will have a point to prove after letting in seven at Goodison Park in November. Phil Bardsley is a product of the Manchester United youth Academy and while he is a tough-tackling defender, he is also comfortable on the ball and likes to push forward. Former Chester man Danny Collins is a full back who tackles well and is good in the air while Nyron Nosworthy will be entrusted to organise the back four to go with his own pace and power.

On loan Jonny Evans is very highly thought of by Sir Alex Ferguson and is calm in his central defensive duties while also passing the ball well.

Midfield

Andy Reid has been a good buy for Sunderland.

The former Nottingham Forest and Charlton player is benefiting from regular football. The Republic of Ireland international is a skilful player with good distribution and vision.

He can thread a ball through to his front player, but also picks a pass well in any area of the field. Everton have shown in the past that with certain formations they are susceptible to teams playing neat one-twos in the middle of the park to move the play forward. Reid will link up with Dean Whitehead to try and give Sunderland a solid platform. Whitehead is a consistent performer who always works hard for his team.

Keiran Richardson is another player with ties to Old Trafford and can make a real impact on a game which his quick wing play and good delivery of crosses. Chips in with important goals.

Daryl Murphy will provide width down the other flank. Everton will want to retain the ball far better than they did in Italy in midweek when, without some important saves from Tim Howard, they might have returned home with the UEFA Cup tie against Fiorentina already decided.

Attack

Kenwyne Jones joined on a four-year contract from Southampton for £6million and has shown why Roy Keane was so keen on him.

Lightning pace, his heading ability is among the best in the Premier League. An obvious danger at set pieces, it is also his flick-ons that will pose problems.

When paired with Michael Chopra, Sunderland possess a front pair with plenty of pace.

The former Cardiff man scored plenty of goals in the Championship, with 22 in 42 games before his £5million move.

The pair form a little and large partnership, but both are quick on their feet. You would expect Joseph Yobo to pick up the quicker player, but Phil Jagielka will have to be on his toes too to watch Chopra. Richardson will help provide width to the attack.

Dangerman

KENWYNE JONES – his pace, power and ability in the air make him the main threat. How much service Sunderland can get to him will shape the game.

Overall verdict

Sunderland’s recent home form will pose a test for an Everton side unbeaten in the last eight Premier League games. But that record can remain intact.

Ronny Goodlass was talking to RICHARD WILLIAMSON