The Black Cats are unbeaten in their last seven matches, but slipped out of the play-off places in midweek.
Despite back-to-back defeats, Oxford remain just a point behind Sunderland, having played one game more, and are in desperate need of a win.
Black Cats boss Alex Neil has altered his side’s shape in recent weeks and may revert to a back three to match Oxford up.
Here’s the Sunderland side we think could start this weekend:
Black Cats boss Alex Neil has altered his side’s shape in recent weeks and may revert to a back three to match Oxford up.