Sunderland are preparing for their Championship match against Preston on New Year’s Day – but who will start for Michael Beale’s side?
The game against North End will be Sunderland’s fourth match in 10 days, following a 1-1 draw at Rotherham last time out.
Patrick Roberts was forced off with an injury against the Millers, with Beale expected to make changes for the Black Cats’ first game of 2024.
Here’s our predicted Sunderland team to face Preston:
5. LB: Trai Hume
Hume has started Sunderland’s last two matches on the left side of defence. The Black Cats may have more options in the coming weeks with Aji Alese and Dennis Cirkin back in training. Photo: Frank Reid
6. CM: Dan Neil
Neil operated in a deep-lying midfield role against Rotherham and wasn’t able to get forward as much. Photo: Frank Reid
7. CM: Pierre Ekwah
After dropping to the bench for the game against Leeds, Ekwah has started Sunderland’s last four matches in midfield. Photo: Frank Reid
8. RW: Abdoullah Ba
After Patrick Roberts was forced off with an injury against Rotherham, Ba may be handed another opportunity to start against Preston. Photo: Frank Reid