Sunderland have been gifted an injury boost before they play Middlesbrough in the Championship tonight.

The Lowdown: Northeast clash

It is a battle of two clubs from the northeast at the Riverside Stadium, from where Tony Mowbray's team will be hoping to come away with all three points.

A win for the visitors would take them into the play-off places in the table, and even though it is still early days, the signs are promising in their first season back after winning promotion from League One.

The Latest: Clarke fit

As per Sunderland's official website, Jack Clarke is now 'expected to be fine' for the match, despite a 'precautionary withdrawal' last time out against Rotherham United.

He suffered a 'calf knock' late on in Wednesday's win over the Millers, but it looks as if the winger has recovered in time to play against Middlesbrough.

The Verdict: Boost for Sunderland

It is certainly a boost for Mowbray and Sunderland to see Clarke fit and ready to play after picking up a knock last time out.

The 21-year-old currently ranks as the Wearside club's second-best performer in the Championship so far this season, with two goals, three assists and two man-of-the-match awards to his name (WhoScored).

Therefore, the Black Cats will surely feel as if they have a better chance of winning with Clarke in the team than without him.