'Should not be played': Sunderland hit out at EFL decision as Lee Johnson makes five changes against AFC Wimbledon amid Covid-19 outbreak

The Black Cats are without eight first-team members who are now self-isolating after one player returned a positive test.

Dion Sanderson, George Dobson, Aiden O'Brien, Elliot Embleton and Will Grigg will all come into the side, while Jordan Willis and Lynden Gooch have returned to the bench.

Here’s how some supporters reacted to tonight’s team news – with many not impressed that the game is going ahead:

@jimmmyreay: Strong side under the circumstances. Undoubtedly should’ve been postponed but we’ve gotta deal with it - I’m assuming risks have properly been assessed re remaining players and opposition of course.

@Jamestweddell: Still a pretty decent starting 11 as it goes

@mickylough95: Given the circumstances, the lads have my support even more than usual. Let's hope we still adhere to the protocols and get another win on the board!

@SAFCTC: Still a decent team that. However, I'm worried about the bench as we only have 3 fully fit players there (one of which is a goalkeeper)

@NRaine97: Honestly thought it’d be a lot worse. We have decent depth

@DjRoberts22: Massive fair play to Gooch and Willis stepping up tonight and going on the bench. Both still nursing injuries

@HarryCook__: Pathetic from the @EFL to let this go ahead. Still a decent enough team haway the lads #getthekidson

@gabenoble12: Not bad considering

@shellsy87: Could have been a lot worse but this should not be played

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Sunderland AFC coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of SAFC coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription to our new sports-only package here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor