Régis Le Bris has some major decisions to make as Sunderland face Roberto De Zerbi’s Spurs at the Stadium of Light on Sunday afternoon (2pm kick off).
Much will depend on how much the injury situation at the club has improved, with the Sunderland head coach set to issue an update at his pre-match press conference on Friday afternoon. Here, we take an early look at what the starting XI and bench could look like as Sunderland look to start the final stretch of the campaign with three crucial points...
17. Sub - Dennis Cirkin
Will likely keep his place in the squad with Le Bris needing additional defensive cover in Ballard's absence. | AFP via Getty Images
18. Sub -Jocelin Ta Bi
The winger has been preferred to Bertrand Traore for the last fortnight. | Getty Images
19. Sub - Bertrand Traore
The winger will likely return to the squad for the first time since the Leeds win given Talbi's injury, and could make his last appearance for the club with his contract currently set to expire this summer | Steve Welsh/PA Wire
20. Sub - Harrison Jones
If Alderete is ruled out then Jones will likely return to the matchday squad | Getty Images