Sunderland face a tough test as they bid to preserve their unbeaten home record against an in-form Man City side and without a number of key senior players.
Here’s how we think Régis Le Bris will set his side up tonight, and who will likely make the bench...
1. GK - Robin Roefs
Made some good saves at Wolves and will have to be at his best if Sunderland are to get anything from this game. | Getty Images
2. RB - Nordi Mukiele
Perhaps the most obvious solution for Le Bris in the wake of Ballard's suspension is to move Nordi Mukiele infield where he started the season so well. The head coach has spoken previously, however, about how important he believes Mukiele at right back is to the team's balance both going forward and defending. Might he look to keep the structure of the team as consistent as possible, and instead opt for a straight swap at centre back? | Getty Images
3. CB - Luke O'Nien
O'Nien had a tough afternoon on his last start at centre back on a day where Ollie Watkins shone, but Sunderland were poor defensively across the board and O'Nien was one of many impacted by a sickness bug. We've seen over the last couple of months how much Le Bris trusts O'Nien - might he take this opportunity to bring him back? | Getty Images
4. CB - Omar Alderete
Had a solid game at Wolves last time out and particularly in Ballard's absence, little doubt that he starts here. | Chris Fryatt