James Kelly returns for London Skolars whilst Danny Yates begins his loan spell as the pressure mounts on their bid to make the Kingstone Press Championship One play-offs.
Coach Joe Mbu insists Sunday’s fixture is not “must win”, but Skolars are seven points behind fifth-placed Hemel Stags.
Mbu said: “Every game is important for us, but once you get into must win scenarios you put yourself under unnecessary pressure. We’re just happy to pick up some momentum and make sure we’re at our best.
“We didn’t have a game last week and I’d have rather we played, but the boys seem upbeat and fresh in training and that’s the positive thing for us.”
On Gateshead, Mbu added: “They’re definitely a much-improved team. They’re a good team with a good coach, but all we’ve got to do is make sure we deliver what we need to in terms of our skill and game-plan.”
Thunder coach Stanley Gene has challenged his troops to show some consistency after a 32-14 defeat against Oldham.
Gene said: “We need to start winning two or three games in a row. It’s so frustrating winning one and losing one. London is a must-win game for us.”
Meanwhile on Saturday morning the Skolars’ U13s entertain Medway Dragons at Perth Road, kick off 1030
