After a fortnight away for the international break, Sunderland will return to action on November 23rd with a tricky visit to in-form Millwall.
The Black Cats drew three on the bounce heading into the break, squandering a two-goal lead against Coventry City in their most recent outing. By contrast, their upcoming hosts had won four on the bounce prior to a 1-1 draw with Stoke City last time out, and haven’t lost a game in the Championship since October 1st.
But despite their recent stumbles, Sunderland still sit top of the table heading into the next leg of the campaign, and will be looking to build on their impressive start against a Millwall side who have dragged themselves into play-off contention in recent weeks.
The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.
If Regis Le Bris is to guide his team to victory, however, he will have to do so without a number of key players. Influential trio Trai Hume, Patrick Roberts, and Jobe Bellingham are all suspended for the trip to The Den, while question marks remain over the fitness of several other big names, including Romaine Mundle and Alan Browne.
With that in mind, here’s how we think Sunderland could line up in the capital, including their full bench. Check out the gallery below...
13. SUB: Aji Alese
Pictured back in training this week, there is a possibility that Alese will start, depending on how Le Bris decides to set up against Millwall. As things stand, however, don't be surprised if he is handed a spot on the bench for the time being. | Getty Images
14. SUB: Leo Hjelde
Another defensive option for Sunderland, but one you imagine will likely be consigned to a watching brief. | Frank Reid
15. SUB: Harrison Jones
So impressive for the U21s this season, Jones is inexperienced at senior level, but provides another body in the centre of midfield if needed. | Chris Fryatt
16. SUB: Abdoullah Ba
Some would argue that Ba is the most natural successor to the suspended Patrick Roberts in Le Bris' squad, but his spell in the wilderness makes it hard to envisage a start against Millwall. Photo: Frank Reid