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...
9. LW - Simon Adingra
Neat assist for Diarra’s goal and was a threat throughout, denied a goal early in the second half only by a stunning late block. Could be a little more aggressive at times but this was a strong showing nevertheless. 7 | Photo by Ian Horrocks courtesy of Sunderland AFC.
10. RW - Chemsdine Talbi
Drew one good save in the second half with a powerful effort. Tidy in possession. 6 | Photo by Chris Fryatt.
11. ST - Eliezer Mayenda
Not an easy game to assess. His penalty was poor and he missed some big chances, and yet in open play it was his best performance of pre-season. Particularly in the second half Augsburg really struggled to cope with his movement and dribbling. Needs a goal but if he keeps playing like this that will happen. 6 | Photo by Chris Fryatt
12. Sub - Jenson Jones
Bright in a late cameo and made some good runs forward. 7 | Jenson Jones. Photo by Ian Horrocks courtesy of Sunderland AFC.