Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill focused on progressing in League Cup

Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill has insisted that his team are determined to keep progressing through the League Cup rounds.

The North East outfit can reach the quarter-finals of the competition if they overcome Middlesbrough in a home tie this evening.

"The game offers the chance to reach the quarter-finals of the competition, which in itself should be a big incentive for both teams," said O'Neill. "Then you've got the fact that it's a derby game. Of course we'd like to progress."

Meanwhile, Premier League outfits Arsenal, Aston Villa, Southampton, Wigan Athletic and Reading are all in League Cup action this evening.