Sunderland are back in action on Tuesday night when they face Hull City at the MKM Stadium.
Régis Le Bris’s side take on Championship opposition as they look to bounce back from a heavy defeat to Hearts at the weekend and step up their preparations for the new season. After increasing the workload for his senior players at Tynecastle and with Conference League winners Real Betis visiting the Stadium of Light on Saturday, we’re anticipating plenty of changes as Le Bris manages the minutes within his current squad. Time will tell, but here’s what we think the starting XI and bench could look like for the game...
5. LB - Reinildo
Won a penalty early on and linked up very nicely with Simon Adingra. Sunderland at times struggled to stop crosses from the right flank but Reinildo was very solid and looks a savvy addition. Should be ready for next weekend after getting 90 minutes. 7 | Reinildo Mandava watching the Sunderland vs Sevilla game in Portugal. Photo by Ian Horrocks.
6. CM - Granit Xhaka
Picked up where he left off last weekend. Involved in the goal and all of Sunderland’s good play. So tidy in possession. Cracked the woodwork with one terrific second-half free kick. 7 | Getty Images
7. CM - Noah Sadiki
Gave away a penalty in the first half but it looked a very harsh decision. Bright throughout the game and got through a lot of work. Went off late on after tacking a whack on the ankle - hopefully just a precaution ahead of next weekend. 6 | Photo by Ian Horrocks courtesy of Sunderland AFC.
8. CM - Habib Diarra
A very good first-time strike to give Sunderland the lead. Almost had an assist later in the half with a nice pass for Mayenda. Broke up play well and consistently got into good positions - very good. 8 | Photo by Ian Horrocks courtesy of Sunderland AFC.