Tony Mowbray’s side got back to winning ways by beating Wigan 2-1 on Saturday, with Elliot Embleton and Dennis Cirkin scoring the goals.
Sunderland will once again have to play without a recognised striker against Blackburn, with Ross Stewart and Ellis Simms still unavailable following injury setbacks.
Lynden Gooch is also a doubt for the game with a foot issue, yet captain Corry Evans is available again after serving a one-match suspension for receiving five yellow cards.
Here’s our predicted Sunderland line-up to face Blackburn:
1. GK: Anthony Patterson
The Sunderland keeper could do little about the opening goal against Wigan and made some important interventions from set-pieces. Photo: Martin Swinney
2. RB: Luke O’Nien
O'Nien's versatility proved important against Wigan as he switched to right-back in the second half. With Lynden Gooch expected to miss the match due to a foot injury, O'Nien could allow Sunderland to switch between a back three and back four. Photo: Frank Reid
3. CB: Danny Batth
Mowbray praised the centre-back's consistancy and aireal presence during the head coach's pre-match press conference. Photo: Frank Reid
4. CB: Aji Alese
After some impressive performances at left-back, the defender moved into a centre-back role in the second half against Wigan. Like O’Nien, he could help Sunderland change their shape within games. Photo: Frank Reid