Confirmed line-ups: Doncaster Rovers vs. Sunderland; Jeremain Lens starts

Tonight will be another indication of how far along his squad are in their pre-season preparations and the Sunderland faithful are certain to be tuning in to find out.

At least there were positives for Advocaat though – chiefly debuts for new signings Younes Kaboul and Jeremain Lens, with the latter proving to be the stand-out performer for the visitors.

Dick Advocaat’s desperate need to bolster Sunderland’s attacking options was reinforced by a 2-0 defeat at League One Doncaster Rovers.

Adam Johnson, Steven Fletcher and Jermaine Defoe all featured in a strong line-up but Sunderland still drew a blank.

The start of season Legion of Light is now in the post to season card holders.

Sunderland will supported by a sell-out away crowd when they travel to the King Power Stadium to face off against Leicester City on the opening day of the Premier League season.

Paul Dickov’s side then took the lead after 15 minutes as Harry Forrester’s cross was smashed beyond Sunderland keeper Costel Pantilimon by former Arsenal youngster Evina from 12 yards.

The Black Cats ended the opening period strongly, and Defoe should have levelled when he side-footed the ball towards goal following a cut-back from Fletcher. Sebastián Coates also made a first appearance since signing after his loan spell from Liverpool last season.

Again, the concession was largely of their own making, with Jack Rodwell this time the player at fault.

Doncaster Stuckmann (Marosi, 82), McCullough, Taylor-Sinclair, Butler, Jones, Evina (McKay, 86), Wellens (Carberry, 86), Coppinger (Mandeville, 83), Middleton (Lindley, 86), Keegan (Whitehouse, 67), Forrester (Pugh, 83).

Subs (not used): Mannone (gk), Pickford (gk).