Our last two narrow 1-0 wins against the Black Cats tell us all we need to know about the challenge ahead while Mauricio knows all about the threat of our legendary former striker Jermain Defoe, who has weighed in with another vital 12 goals in the Premier League for David Moyes' men.
We travel to Wearside with six wins and a draw in our last seven league matches.
Below: Mauricio previews Sunderland with Spurs TV
"It’s always difficult to play in the Premier League," said Mauricio. "Sunderland are in a situation where they need to win games and win points and we’re in a position too where we need to fight for points to be at the top of the table.