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:
9. CAM: Alex Pritchard
Pritchard once again made an impact off the bench against Rotherham. The playmaker had been struggling with an illness which caused him to miss the match against Coventry earlier this month. Photo: Frank Reid
10. LW: Jack Clarke
Clarke scored his 12th goal of the season to earn Sunderland a point against Rotherham. Only Blackburn’s Sammie Szmodics has scored more in the second tier this term. Photo: Frank Reid
11. ST: Jobe Bellingham
Bellingham wasn’t really able to get in the game up front against Rotherham but has been effective there in previous matches. Photo: Frank Reid