King Back In Contention

King’s return will be welcoming news to the City boss after midfielder Matty James' rehabilitation period following his anterior cruciate ligament injury was confirmed as being from six to nine months. 

Striker David Nugent, meanwhile, remains sidelined due to the calf problem he picked up in the pre-match warmup prior to the 2-0 victory over Swansea City. 

“Well obviously there’s the Matty James injury from last week, but that apart, it’s as we were really,” Pearson said. "Andy King comes back into contention, so it’s pretty much one out one in. 

“We’ve got a fit squad to choose from and we’ve had that for the vast majority of the season.” 

Currently three points above the drop-zone, the Foxes head to the Stadium of Light knowing a win could secure their Premier League status. 

Anticipating yet another tough test, Pearson added: “The two games are ones that we have to get the right result for us. The game against Sunderland is a very important game but in the context of the season, it remains very much a similar message. That is that we want it to be in our own hands, but this gives us another opportunity. 

“Our efforts in this run have made it a more realistic possibility to stay up. I don’t think I’ll fall into the trap of going into any game thinking the job is done. That’s not the case.”