How Sunderland could line up against Cardiff City in their Championship fixture at the Cardiff City Stadium.
Sunderland are preparing for their Championship match against Cardiff after the international break - but who could start for Mike Dodds’ side?
The Black Cats have gone seven games without a win but will hope some of their injured players will be able to return after the break. The Cardiff match is likely to come too soon for Jack Clarke and Patrick Roberts, yet the pair are not thought to be too far away from making their comebacks.
Here’s how the Black Cats could line up against Cardiff at the Cardiff City Stadium:
Here’s how the Black Cats could line up against Cardiff at the Cardiff City Stadium:
5. LB: Leo Hjelde
The 20-year-old played at centre-back against QPR but is likely to return to left-back with O’Nien available again. Hjelde is also set to have more competition with Aji Alese nearing a return from injury. Photo: Frank Reid
Neil has worn the captain’s armband for Sunderland’s last two matches in O’Nien’s absence. The midfielder has missed just one league fixture this season. Photo: Frank Reid
The Frenchman has started Sunderland’s last two matches on the bench and could be recalled after a challenging spell. Ekwah also played 60 minutes for the Black Cats’ under-21s side against Newcastle. Photo: Frank Reid
The January signing has started Sunderland’s last two matches and scored his first goal for the club during this month’s match against Southampton. Photo: Frank Reid