Sunderland are preparing for their Championship match against Plymouth Argyle - but who will start for Michael Beale’s side?
The Black Cats came from behind to draw 1-1 with Middlesbrough last weekend, with Nazariy Rusyn scoring a late equaliser at the Riverside. That result leaves Sunderland one point off a play-off place with 16 league games remaining this season.
Plymouth start the weekend 15th in the table following back-to-back league wins over Cardiff and Swansea, yet they were beaten 4-1 by Leeds in the FA Cup on Tuesday.
Here’s our predicted Sunderland team to face the Pilgrims:
1. GK: Anthony Patterson
The Sunderland keeper made an important early save to deny Sam Greenwood in the first half against Middlesbrough when the game was still goalless. Photo: Frank Reid
2. RB: Trai Hume
Leo Hjelde’s arrival allowed Hume to return to his natural right-back position against Middlesbrough, with the Northern Irishman providing an attacking outlet on the flank. Photo: Frank Reid
3. CB: Dan Ballard
Ballard was replaced in the final few seconds of the Middlesbrough match with a shoulder injury, yet Beale said after the match the centre-back should be available to face Plymouth. Photo: Frank Reid
4. CB: Luke O’Nien
O’Nien has only missed one league game this season, when he was suspended after picking up five yellow cards, and continues to captain the side at centre-back. Photo: Frank Reid