As you've likely heard, Darren Bent didn't travel to the Stadium of Light. We've got a whole 'nother post on that.

Before the lineups were even announced, Villa supporters knew that Chris Herd was out of the match, thanks to his twitter. He better keep an eye out, though -- supporters suggest that he's off on the town with his girlfriend tonight, and we all know the fans do not look kindly on shopping while you should be suffering with your side. Even if it's just in front of the telly.

Sigh. Of course Herd doesn't want to watch the Villa. Most of us don't, save for a few moments per match, anyway. But we're hanging in there and hoping there's something worth seeing. And waving hello to King Carlos.

Sunderland Starting XI: Simon Mignolet, Phil Bardsley, Lee Cattermole, Sebastian Larsson, Craig Gardner, Jack Colback, John O'Shea, Adam Johnson, Carlos Cuellar, Steven Fletcher, Stéphane Sessègnon

Substitutes (from): Danny Rose, Fraizer Campbell, Matthew Kilgallon, David Vaughan, Keiren Westwood, James McClean, Louis Saha

Aston Villa Starting XI: Brad Guzan, Matthew Lowton, Ron Vlaar, Joe Bennett, Ciaran Clark, Ashley Westwood, Barry Bannan, Stephen Ireland, Andreas Weimann, Gabby Agbonlahor, Christian Benteke.

Substitutes (from): Shay Given, Marc Albrighton, Brett Holman, Fabian Delph, Enda Stevens, Eric Lichaj, Jordan Bowery.