Sunderland vs Watford Prediction: Sunderland is currently in the driving seat for a playoff spot

Sunderland is set to host Watford on Saturday at the Stadium of Light. Who will come out on top after 90 minutes? 

Sunderland form

After a string of losses in February and March, Sunderland's chances of making it to the playoffs seemed slim. But with three wins and four draws, they have secured the final spot with two games left, against teams in close proximity to them in the standings.

Tony Mowbray's team were behind at halftime in their last match against West Bromwich Albion. A loss would have dropped them out of the top ten, but a 2-1 win secured their current sixth position. This shows how competitive the league is, with small margins for error for teams ranked between fifth and twelfth. Sunderland has only failed to score in the league once since November. That was in a goalless draw away at champions Burnley.

Sunderland Predicted lineup

Patterson; Gooch, Hume, O'Nien, Cirkin; Neil, Michut; Diallo, Ba, Clarke; Gelhardt

Watford Form

Watford has had a season of instability, which has not worked in their favour this year. The decision to sack Rob Edwards after just 11 matches, who is now at Luton Town, seems to have been a mistake, and the Hornets will need to rebuild over the summer.

Their current manager, Chris Wilder, who is the third manager of the season, will not continue with the club next season. He has collected just eight points in the nine games he has been in charge of, but he will be keen to end the season on a high note against both Northeast and Stoke City, not only to benefit Watford's position but also to boost his own managerial prospects.

Watford possible lineup

Bachmann; Andrews, Porteous, Kabasele, Kamara; Sarr, Louza, Bacuna, Kone, Pedro; Davis

Sunderland vs Watford Expert Tips

With their recent good form, Sunderland is currently in the driving seat for a playoff spot and is expected to secure it, barring any unexpected setbacks. Meanwhile, considering Watford's recent struggles, the Black Cats are heavily favoured to win this weekend's game and should be able to take all three points. Expect more than 2.5 goals in the game.