The Black Cats welcome a somewhat rejuvenated Ipswich Town side to the Stadium of Light with the Tractor Boys winning four of their last six games to climb up to ninth in the League One table.
Paul Cook invested heavily into his side in the summer with as many as 19 signings and having endured a difficult start to the campaign the Tractor Boys are now just four points outside the play-off places and only a further point behind Sunderland ahead of Saturday’s clash.
The Wearsiders, meanwhile, are in a poor run of form having slipped to fifth in the table following three straight defeats for Johnson’s side.
The Black Cats were heavily beaten in their two latest outings at Rotherham United and Sheffield Wednesday and fans are growing in concern about their promotion chances.
It means Johnson faces a dilemma this weekend as to whether he sticks with the same personnel who have both started the season well and then hit a slump in form, or whether he changes things up.
Given Sunderland’s lack of attacking impetus in recent weeks there will also be question marks around whether Johnson will shake things up tactically or not for the visit of Ipswich.
Here at the Sunderland Echo we look at a possible starting XI for next weekend with one key midfielder set to miss out and a loan striker joining the attack.
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9. Aiden McGeady - Midfield
McGeady should be raring to go and with a point to prove after a disappointing judgement call which ended up in his dismissal at Rotherham United. The experienced winger hasn't hit the heights many were expecting so far this season but there is still plenty of magic left in the 35-year-old's boots yet as he gets the start against Ipswich. Picture by FRANK REID Photo: FRANK REID 2021
10. Nathan Broadhead - Attack
Broadhead is more than likely one of the first names on the team sheet for the visit of Ipswich in most supporters' eyes. The Everton loanee was excellent in the win over the Robins before being hit with injury and grabbed a smart equaliser upon his return in the Papa John's Trophy draw with Bradford City. Another week on the training ground to build up his fitness further should see the 23-year-old in good shape to start. Picture by FRANK REID Photo: COPYRIGHT (C) FRANK REID 20187
11. Ross Stewart - Attack
Alongside Broadhead, Stewart's selection is nailed on but for any complications through the week. The Scotsman has enjoyed an excellent start to the season with 10 goals and will be looking to add to that against Ipswich. Stewart has found himself isolated in recent weeks and will be relying heavily on those from wide areas and alongside him to offer a helping hand. Picture by FRANK REID Photo: FRANK REID 2021