Doncaster Rovers v Sunderland: Three dangermen Phil Parkinson & Co need to be wary of

Darren Moore could unleash a trio of creative forces across his midfield as Doncaster look to inflict pile more misery on the Black Cats.

Madger Gomes, Ben Whiteman and Josh Sims have seven goals and eight assists between them in only 23 League One appearances combined for 10th-placed side Doncaster this season.

Spanish midfielder Gomes hasn’t featured since their home defeat to Crewe Alexandra on October 24 but looks set for an imminent return - potentially this weekend.

Captain Whiteman and Sims, meanwhile, have maintained their good form in recent weeks.

But just how much of a threat could the trio be to Sunderland?

Ben Whiteman

Sheffield United old boy and Rovers' captain Whiteman has scored three goals and made three more in only 10 games.

The roaming midfielder could cause problems with his ability to drift between the lines and pick penetrative passes alongside the similarly creative Gomes.

Sunderland may hope to crowd out Whiteman out in a compact 3-5-2 formation, but that won’t faze a player who made his debut for Sheffield United at 18.

Madger Gomes

A former Liverpool reserve team regular and Spain U18 international, the powerful Gomes has added goals to his box to box physicality.

Having bounced between Leeds United and clubs in Spain, France and Croatia following his release from Anfield, the left-footed playmaker has found a home at the Keepmoat Stadium, though since signing soon after Moore’s own arrival in the summer of 2019.

Three goals and an assist in seven league appearances this season - as well as September’s League One Player of the Month award.

Josh Sims

On loan from Southampton, Sims has hit the ground running in League One, with a goal and four assists in six games.

With 20 top-flight appearances on his CV, as well as a spell in MLS with New York Red Bulls, the winger is clearly intent on sending a message to Saints manager Ralph Hasenhuttl.

Most often stationed on the left flank, the 23-year-old will look to exploit space in behind whoever operates at right wing-back for Sunderland.

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