SUNDERLAND will come up against a familiar face at Plymouth on Saturday - with Tony Mowbray's side braced for the challenge of trying to contain "exciting and sharp" Bali Mumba.

Mumba came through the ranks at Sunderland and made his debut when he was just 16 before leaving for Norwich City three years ago.

The 21-year-old became Plymouth's joint record signing when he joined the club in the summer after impressing on loan for Argyle at wing-back last season, and he's catching the eye in the Championship, with two assists and a goal in his last three outings.

"He looks exciting, sharp. He's a goal threat. He can score and assist," said Tony Mowbray of the former Sunderland youngster.

Mumba isn't the only Plymouth player Sunderland will be wary of on Saturday. Although Argyle are 19th and just five points above the relegation zone, Mowbray has been impressed by what he's seen from Steven Schumacher's side.

"They've had some big and good results, particularly at home," said Sunderland's boss.

"They scored six against Norwich, drew 3-3 with Middlesbrough, beat Blackburn 3-0, Blackburn are a top team.

"They've had some really good results, at home particularly and scored lots of goals. I think they're in the top three for goals scored so we have to be very mindful they can cause problems.

"They've lost probably too many goals for their liking but as you look at the game you'd think there's going to be goals in it."

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Mowbray added: "We're looking forward to the challenge. I haven't been to Plymouth for lots of years but I know it's a very difficult place to go and get a result.

"Their results suggest they're a good team. I've been watching them this week. They have some good players, some good wide attackers, they play the ball through the lines well and transition well from defence to attack very quickly.

"If we're at our best hopefully we can go and give them some problems."

Mowbray wants to put on a show - and hopefully pick up all three points - for the supporters who are making the mammoth trip.

He said: "It's a ridiculously long way and I've already mentioned to the players this week that we need to find a performance for the supporters. We can't guarantee a result but we can guarantee hard work for the people who make a huge commitment for that trip."