Don’t read too much into Sunderland situation Darren Moore urges Doncaster Rovers

The Black Cats have won one of their last 12 matches in all competitions with pressure mounting on boss Phil Parkinson despite having only been on the role for less than two months.

Supporters chanted for Parkinson’s head during the goalless draw with Bolton Wanderers on Boxing Day while a selection of fan groups have united to urge owner Stuart Donald to sell the club.

Despite the instability in the north east, Rovers boss Moore says all that will matter on Sunday are the two sides on the pitch - and he has warned Sunderland remain a threatening opposition.

"The Sunderland game is an isolated fixture,” Moore said. “We know they're a fantastic club with some wonderful players.

"We know we're going to have to be at our best to get something from the game.

"They got to the play-offs last season and a lot of those players are still in the building.

"They're dangerous opponents.”

Sunderland twice beat Rovers last season on their way to the play-offs where, like Doncaster, they fell at the semi-final stage.

Moore believes there are no real surprises in football so is not shocked to see Parkinson’s side having struggled to mount a strong challenge so far.

But he also says it would be foolish to rule the Black Cats out of a top six push this season - or a victory at the Keepmoat on Sunday.

"They're one of the strong teams in the division and they are managed by a very experienced manager in Phil,” he said.

"It'll be difficult. They ask questions of you.

"They're a big club at this level.

"It's another tough fixture at this level. Every game presents its own problems.

"We'll have a look at what is coming to town and we'll try to come up with a gameplan and trying to get the right result.

"We're expecting a tough game.”