Sunderland have recently been boosted by the return of key midfielder Chris Rigg, who had been missing since the Blackburn Rovers game on Boxing Day after injuring his ankle at Ewook Park.
Head coach Régis Le Bris has also welcomed Salis Abdul Samed back. The midfielder signed for the Black Cats last summer but has not been fit since. The duo join new signing Enzo Le Fèe in helping to bolster Sunderland’s squad.
Despite not being a league game, fringe players Abdoullah Ba and Jewison Bennette were not in the squad to face Stoke City in the FA Cup recently, nor was Joe Anderson. The trio appear firmly out of the head coach’s plans and will be allowed to leave in January should a decent offer arise.
The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates directly to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.
Sunderland have also been linked with a host of incoming deals alongside Le Fée as the Black Cats look to push for promotion during the second half of the season.
With that in mind and for a little bit of fun, we take a look at how Le Bris’ starting XI and subs bench if the recent transfer rumours turn out to be true:
21. Potential substitute: Harrison Jones
The homegrown midfielder has formed part of Le Bris' squad this season but could also go out on loan in January. | Getty Images
22. Potential substitute: Milan Aleksic
The Serbian midfielder has started to feature under Le Bris as the season wears on after signing for the club in the summer. | Getty Images
23. Potential substitute: Romaine Mundle
The Sunderland winger was in electric form before suffering an unfortunate muscle injury. He is expected back before the season ends. | Bradley Collyer/PA Wire
24. Potential substitute: Chris Rigg
The youngster has been in fine form for Sunderland this season but now faces intense competition for places. | Chris Rigg vs Norwich City. Photo by Chris Fryatt.