Could Sunderland face Leeds or Middlesbrough? What fans NEED to know about tonight's Carabao Cup draw

Everything fans need to know as Sunderland enter the draw for the Carabao Cup first round tonight.

The draw for the first round of this season’s Carabao Cup takes place tonight - here, we explain everything supporters need to know about the competition Sunderland reached the final of during the 2013/14 season.

What format does the tournament take?

The 70 team strong draw is split in half into two regions at this stage - north and south - with Sunderland in the northern section. The draw will be made by previous winners John Barnes and Ray Parlour.

Who could Sunderland face and what number are they in the draw?

Jack Ross’ men - No.34 - and could face any northern team from the Championship, League One or League Two - including No. 17 Leeds United and Middlesbrough, who are No. 21 in the draw.

Sheffield Wednesday, the side who knocked Sunderland out of last year’s competition, are back again… so watch out for No. 31 as the balls are being pulled out of the bag.

The highest-ranked teams in the north that the Black Cats could play are recently relegated Huddersfield Town at No.15, and beaten Playoff finalists Derby County, at No.11. EFL new boys Salford City - No. 29 - feature for the first time in their history.

Where’s the draw taking place and can I watch it?

You’ll be able to follow the draw live from a Morrisons in Colindale near Wembley via the Carabao Cup’s Facebook page at 7pm - no tv coverage has been confirmed but we’ll have updates over on the Sunderland Echo website and social media pages.

What are the other teams numbers?

North

1. Accrington Stanley

2. Barnsley

3. Blackburn Rovers

4. Blackpool

5. Bolton Wanderers

6. Bradford City

7. Burton Albion