Blues visit is another big weekend
I'M starting to repeat myself more than the programmes on UK TV Gold, but this could be yet another massive weekend for us.
The Holy Grail of Premier League survival is now within sight, and while I'm cautious enough to admit we are not out of the woods yet, I don't think we have too much to fear.
I'm not about to start predicting that we are too good to go down or any other such nonsense, but things are definitely starting to look up.
Not only have we picked up a couple of good results in our last two home games, but we seem to have rediscovered some of the self belief which we had been so sadly lacking.
So, now we have to try to make sure we continue to believe in ourselves when Birmingham City come to town tomorrow.
The Blues have performed above expectations so far this season, and will certainly provide us with a tough test.
However, if we are truly hoping to move away from the drop zone for good, then we need to get something from this encounter.
All three points and a convincing performance would be ideal, but even a point wouldn't be too disastrous.
I think the other big thing about this weekend is that if other results go our way, we could put a massive gap between ourselves and those in the drop zone.
Of course, that is easier said than done, particularly as the Blues beat us 2-1 earlier in the campaign, and we once again have one or two selection problems.
Lorik Cana completes his two-match suspension, while there is still a doubt over the availability of Kenwyne Jones, although Steve Bruce says he hopes to have the striker at his disposal.
Having Jones available against City would be a huge boost, but I hope we aren't rushing him back.
We have yet to see if Benjani can fill in for the Trinidad and Tobago star and provide a goal threat, but if there is the slightest chance of Jones aggravating his hip injury I would leave him out.
He has been in top form of late, but I'd rather have him fully fit for the end of season run-in, rather than rush him back and risk a long spell on the sidelines.
City's trip to Wearside tomorrow sees the return of former Black Cat Kevin Phillips.
Hopefully, the striker will get a warm welcome from the home fans.
Some supporters were aggrieved when Phillips turned down the chance to return to Sunderland a few seasons ago, choosing instead to go to West Bromwich Albion.
Personally, I think he made the wrong choice (but then I would say that wouldn't I?).
However, I won't and can't forget what a great servant and player Super Kev was when he was here, and it is for that which I hope he is remembered and applauded tomorrow.
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Weather for South Shields
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 9 C to 20 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 8 C to 19 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: East
