It is fair to say that this has been the trickiest team selection Régis Le Bris has faced so far this season.
Sunderland travel to an in-form Millwall side with a lengthy list of absentees due to both injury and suspension. Whichever way he goes, he will have to field new partnerships in key areas of the pitch, and hand starts to players with limited minutes of late. Here’s how we think he might go...
5. LB - Dennis Cirkin
Cirkin has been a regular in the side but was rested for the win at Hillsborough last week. Leo Hjelde performed solidly in his absence and even produced an assist, but it would be a surprise if Cirkin was not restored to the side on Saturday with his attacking threat likely to be key. Le Bris may consider rotating further in midweek when Preston visit the Stadium of Light. | Getty Images
6. CM - Dan Neil
Another excellent performance at Sheffield Wednesday. Competition for places in midfield is growing but almost impossible to imagine a Sunderland side without Neil in it at the moment. | Frank Reid
7. CM - Jobe Bellingham
Such an important player in this side and certain to start. Is one yellow away from a two-game suspension but there are now only two games to play until the cut-off, so the Black Cats will hope that he can through these home fixtures unscathed. | Getty Images
8. Sub - Alan Browne
Browne made a successful return to the starting XI last week having been absent since November with injury, playing 70 minutes. His return could allow Le Bris to again use Chris Rigg as an impact sub, with the Sunderland boss understandably concerned about fatigue impacting the 17-year-old. Photo: Ben Roberts Photo