Sunderland are preparing for their Championship match against Bristol City - but who will start for Mike Dodds’ side?
The Black Cats were thumped 5-1 by Blackburn on Monday and have lost seven of their last nine matches. Bristol City, meanwhile, have won their last two games against Leicester and Plymouth to move two points above Sunderland in the Championship table.
Here’s our predicted Sunderland XI to face the Robins at the Stadium of Light:
5. LB: Leo Hjelde
After starting the side’s last two matches on the bench, Hjelde may be recalled to the side at left-back. Photo: Frank Reid
6. CM: Dan Neil
With Sunderland short of options in central midfield, Neil remains a hugely important figure in the side’s engine room. Photo: Frank Reid
7. CM: Chris Rigg
Rigg came off the bench and scored against Blackburn and has been deployed off the right in recent weeks. The 16-year-old may be moved into a central midfield position. Photo: Frank Reid
8. RW: Abdoullah Ba
Ba dropped to the bench against Blackburn after starting at Cardiff. The 20-year-old has made 35 Championship appearances this season. Photo: Frank Reid