Sunderland and West Bromwich Albion played out a disappointing goalless draw which did few favours for either side's early season ambitions. For the Black Cats, it was a fifth successive draw as they dropped to third behind Burnley and missed the chance to go top.

Follow live coverage as Sunderland face West Bromwich Albion in the Championship today. An increasingly competitive second tier in English football remains an intense and exciting competition, with the prize of a place in the Premier League on offer at the end of the season.

Alex Mowatt ensured West Brom emerged from their Sky Bet Championship trip to high-flying Sunderland with some reward after his crucial block denied Chris Rigg a winner.

Sunderland are also set to be without defenders Jenson Seelt and Niall Huggins, as well as midfielder Salis Abdul Samed, so expect to see a backline consisting of Luke O'Nien, Chris Mepham, Daniel Ballard and Ajibola-Joshua Alese.

Follow live coverage as Sunderland face West Bromwich Albion in the Championship today. An increasingly competitive second tier in English football remains an intense and exciting competition, with the prize of a place in the Premier League on offer at the end of the season.

Draw specialists Albion were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw at lowly Preston as a troublesome run extended to just one win in 12 games.

Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris has identified Josh Maja as a potential threat ahead of his side’s meeting with West Bromwich Albion. Maja has scored on a consistent basis for West Brom this season.