Big match focus: Black Cats v North End

Sunderland boss Chris Coleman (photo: Frank Reid)

Coleman resigned from his job with Wales to take the Stadium of Light vacancy. He had managed Wales for more than five years, guiding them to the semi-finals of Euro 2016. Before Wales, Coleman managed Fulham, Real Sociedad, Coventry and Greek side AEL. As a player he served Manchester City, Swansea, Crystal Palace, Blackburn and Fulham.

MEET THE REF: Darren Bond

The Wigan official will referee Preston’s visit to Sunderland on Saturday. This is the third North End game which Mr Bond has taken charge of this season – he oversaw the goalless draw with Millwall in September and the 2-1 win at Bristol City in November. In both games, he showed four yellow cards – three of them to PNE players. Mr Bond has taken charge of four Sunderland matches this term, one of those at the Stadium of Light.

THIS WEEK:

67 years ago: On March 17, 1951, Preston beat Sheffield United 3-2 at Bramall Lane. Willie Forbes, Charlie Wayman and Ken Horton scored. PNE won the Second Division title that season.

56 years ago: On March 14, 1962, North End were beaten 2-1 by Manchester United in an FA Cup quarter-final replay. Alan Spavin netted for PNE in front of a 63,468 crowd at  Old Trafford.

31 years ago: Preston beat Stockport County 3-0 at Deepdale on March 17, 1987, to boost their promotion push from Division Four. Gary Swann, John Thomas and Frank Worthington were on target with the goals.

27 years ago: PNE beat Birmingham 2-0 at Deepdale, Lee Cartwright and Warren Joyce netting.