The Walking Dead season 7 episode 7 clip, airdate and what to expect

The story's returning to the Sanctuary - with two unexpected guests

This weekend sees episode seven of The Walking Dead, the penultimate outing before the series leaves screens for its mid-season break.

Following last week's instalment which centred on Tara (Alanna Masterson) and Heath (Corey Hawkins), it seems we're returning to the main fold with appearances from much of the show's ensemble including adversaries Rick and Negan.

Here's everything you should know about the episode.

When's it on?

What's it called?

'Sing Me a Song' - readers of the comic books will know this references a huge encounter between two key characters.

What can we expect?

The Sanctuary explored

Having simply scaled the surface of the Saviours' stomping ground in episode three, it seems we'll be granted a full understanding of what goes on behind-the-scenes at Negan's place of residence. The episode's synopsis back this up, describing it as: "A deeper look at the Sanctuary and the world of the Saviours."

Carl and Negan showdown

The last we saw of Carl (Chandler Riggs), he was in the back of a supply truck with Jesus (Tom Payne) headed straight for Negan; the one-eyed kid is not taking the deaths of Glenn and Abraham lying down. The season six finale saw an intriguing interaction between these two characters - not to mention the devastating season 7 premiere which almost saw Rick forced to cut off his own son's arm at Negan's behest - so consider this episode the one that looks to mark the start of a new era for Grimes Jr.

Problems for Daryl

One person who won't be happy to see Carl is Daryl (Norman Reedus) who's still wearing those rags. Knowing his presence spells trouble, Daryl could well be in the firing line should Negan's unpredictability rear its head. Just keep that hot iron away from everyone we love, please.

Trouble in the Alexandria ranks

Spencer's proving that - following the death of his mother, Deanna (Tovah Feldshuh) - he's going to be something of a hindrance to the Alexandria Safe-Zone crew. Openly chiding Rick for getting them into this situation with the Saviours - inadvertently blaming him for Glenn and Abe's deaths - could Spencer's allegiance be in danger of fracture?

A new discovery

Rick and Aaron are off on a supply run and because these scenes will need to serve a purpose going into the mid-season finale, it's fair to assume the scavenging team could come across something quite exciting; perhaps they'll collide with another group - say, perhaps, Carol and Morgan at The Kingdom?

The Walking Dead airs in the US on Sundays. Its UK premiere airs the following night at 9pm on FOX