Here is our predicted starting line-up as Sunderland travel to Leeds United tomorrow evening.
Sunderland have managed to claim three clean sheets in their last four games, but have still managed to concede five goals.
Their 2-0 win over Cardiff City last month has proven to be a one-off rather than a turnaround in a disastrous second half to the campaign, so a trip to high-flying Leeds United is not something they will be looking forward to.
Sunderland narrowly beat the Whites in the reverse fixture during Mike Dodds‘ previous spell in charge, but now the Yorkshire outfit are in the middle of a fierce battle for automatic promotion.
They currently sit third in the Championship having lost to Coventry City at the weekend, but they remain only two points from the top spot.
Meanwhile, Sunderland have nothing but pride to play for. It would be a typical slip-up for Leeds, but it certainly seems like an upset the Black Cats aren’t capable of making given their current form.
Mike Dodds could name a much stronger line-up than in previous weeks though.
Here is our predicted XI…
Sunderland’s ‘worst player‘ benched
Anthony Patterson has made some important saves during his three clean sheets in the past four games. The goalkeeper continues his role in between the sticks on Tuesday evening.
Trai Hume is one player that has been mostly very impressive this term, despite the club’s defensive frailties. Timothee Pembele hasn’t had a sniff of the starting line-up, and Hume will most likely keep his spot for the rest of the season.
Luke O’Nien and Dan Ballard continue their partnership in the middle, while Leo Hjelde is dropped to the bench.
The Norwegian came back in after the Blackburn hammering but put on another poor display, before Aji Alese was brought on for his first appearance since January.
The 23-year-old was‘excellent’ during his cameo and is likely to have earned himself a start against Leeds.
Alese completes what is arguably Sunderland’s best backline – though Dennis Cirkin would perhaps make a case of his inclusion too.
Dan Neil and Pierre Ekwah keep their places in midfield, while Adil Aouchiche could be rested.
The Frenchman wasn’t quite as lively against Bristol City as he was against Cardiff, and could make way for Patrick Roberts, while Chris Rigg could move into the middle.
The winger had a horrific showing against Blackburn, but had really been thrown in at the deep end given that he hadn’t played in over a month.
Roberts’ talent is undeniable and so I expect him to be given another chance to impress out wide.
Jack Clarke unsurprisingly starts following a stellar return to the team last time out, while Jobe Bellingham will be looking to replicate the display he put on against Cardiff, though he has been particularly quiet since then.