One of the biggest stories doing the rounds at the present moment in time concerns the future of Jordan Henderson, with the Black Cats academy graduate reportedly looking to seal a move away from Ajax in January due to a lack of playing time. To that end, Sunderland are among those who are being touted for a potential swoop, with The Sun suggesting that a return to the Stadium of Light “could be on the cards”.
Addressing the prospect of Henderson returning to Sunderland earlier this week, ex-Black Cats striker Darren Bent said: “Going back to Sunderland makes sense. That’s his club. That’s where he started. That’s where I played with him. The fans would love him as well, and he’s had an unbelievable career. When you look back, what he’s won, what he’s done for England. He’s had an incredible career.”
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But if all these rumours were to come true, then how might Sunderland be lining up come January? We’ve taken a close look at Regis Le Bris’ potential starting XI, and bench, below...

21. Potential sub: Milan Aleksic
The young midfielder is rated as a top prospect but is yet to make his debut for Sunderland yet despite being named on the bench several times. | Frank Reid

22. Potential substitute: Glen Kamara
Glen Kamara spent the 2023-24 season on the books at Leeds United but has been linked with Sunderland during the January window. | George Wood/Getty Images Photo: George Wood/Getty Images

23. Potential sub: Ian Poveda
The former Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday winger signed for Sunderland this summer but has spent most of his time at the club injured so far. | Ian Poveda by Chris Fryatt

24. Potential sub: Aaron Connolly
The striker signed for Sunderland as a free agent after the season had started and made his debut off the bench against Hull City in the Championship and has since netted his first goal against Millwall. | Frank Reid


