It has been a long wait for Sunderland fans but their team finally returns to action when they travel to face Hull City on Sunday afternoon.
Tim Walter’s side fell to a heavy defeat against Norwich City last time out but won their three games previous to that and so are not to be taken lightly. Regis Le Bris is hopeful of getting some big injury boosts for the game, and is set to given an update when he speaks to the media at his press conference on Friday lunchtime. In the meantime, here’s how we think he might go with his starting XI and bench...
1. Sub - Simon Moore
Le Bris has confirmed that Anthony Patterson is not yet fully fit after his recent injury and so Simon Moore will get the chance to continue his impressive form. | Frank Reid
2. RB - Trai Hume
Hume is one booking away from a suspension but has managed it impressively well for a number of weeks. Is playing well and making good contributions in the final third over recent games. Photo: Nigel French
3. CB - Luke O'Nien
Continues to impress, particularly with his distribution from the back, and has quickly formed an excellent partnership with Chris Mepham. | Kian Abdullah/Huw Evans Agency
4. CB - Chris Mepham
Has been in superb form for a number of weeks and though Dan Ballard is back, he'll have to be patient. Le Bris has already ruled out switching to a back three at this stage. Simply a must pick right now even if Wednesday probably wasn't his best performance in the first half. | Frank Reid