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...
13. Sub - Chris Rigg
A strong contender to start in Ballard's absence and much will depend on how Le Bris wants to reshuffle his back four. Will be first line if Hume does revert to right back. | AFP via Getty Images
14. Sub - Habib Diarra
Could return to the XI if Le Fee moves back out to the left wing but that does seem unlikely. Will have a role to play as an impact substitute. | Ian MacNicol/Getty Images Photo: Ian MacNicol/Getty Images
15. Sub - Lutsharel Geertruida
Has to be a strong contender at right back in Ballard's absence but given Le Bris's decisions over the last month, you wonder if he'll be on the bench again. | AFP via Getty Images
16. Sub - Eliezer Mayenda
Will hope for a chance to impress from the bench with Brobbey firmly established as first choice striker for the time being. | Chris Fryatt