SUNDERLAND head for Deepdale tonight looking to continue their superb start to the Championship season.

The Black Cats lost to North End in the Carabao Cup earlier this season but Regis Le Bris' full-strength side will provide an all together different test for the hosts.

Preston were managerless when they beat Sunderland in August, with Paul Heckingbottom having since taken charge. So what can the Black Cats expect tonight? We spoke to George Hodgson, Preston reporter at the Lancashire Evening Post.

•    How have Preston fared since the Paul Heckingbottom appointment and what sort of challenge can Sunderland expect?

North End will be frustrated they don't have more points on the board, certainly. There have been two or three off days, but on the whole PNE have been a more engaging and entertaining watch. They're aggressive off the ball and Heckingbottom has challenged them to be braver in possession, too. Formation wise, we've seen a flexibility about the Lilywhites as well. They are now looking to turn those positive signs into more points, in order to climb up the table.

•    Regis Le Bris has confirmed Alan Browne will play for Sunderland. How is he remembered at Preston and what sort of reception will he get?

Really fondly - and I think that appreciation will only increase over time. Browne was a magnificent servant for North End and you did feel he'd play his whole career at Deepdale. It's a shame that wasn't able to happen, but you can't blame him for fancying a change after 10-and-a-half years - and it's working out alright so far isn't it?! He deserves an excellent reception and I'd fully expect that to be the case - even though the Irishman did have some critics, like all players.

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•    How has former Sunderland youngster Sam Greenwood done so far and what role will he play on Wednesday night?

He can be pleased with his efforts so far. Greenwood wasn't a Paul Heckingbottom signing, but the Leeds United loan man wasted no time making a strong impression. He's started most of Preston's games and handled the Championship pretty well - after initial concerns over his physicality. But, he's shown plenty of aggression and tenacity. His set-piece quality is a big strength and you can see his technical pedigree as well; of course there's still room for improvement. Greenwood operates as an attacking midfield player. He could be one of two number tens, or right up alongside front man Emil Riis if he starts.

•    What have you made of Sunderland so far this season and how do you expect Wednesday night’s game to play out?

I think they've been a likable side for a few years now, given the focus on youth development. I think that makes any side quite entertaining to watch and they're obviously going really well. There seems to be lots of personality in the team. I thought the loss of Jack Clarke may rock them, so full credit to the Black Cats for ensuring that didn't happen.

Having spoken to him plenty of times, I know Browne is a very switched on and intelligent character, so when he signed for Sunderland I was quite keen to see how they'd go. I thought Regis Le Bris must've really impressed him when they spoke; the French boss is doing a fine job so far. I think it'll be a high octane, fiercely contested game and a tough challenge for North End. I'll go 2-1 either way.