The FA this week rejected Sunderland’s appeal against Dan Ballard’s red card for violent conduct at Wolves, upholding his three-game suspension and thus ruling him out of the remainder of the Premier League campaign.
It leaves Régis Le Bris with a tricky selection for Sunderland’s major test against an in-form Manchester United side, as he ponders whether to make a straight swap or reshuffle the make up of his back four. With key figures also on their way back from injury, there are dilemmas further forward and with the make up of his substitute’s bench. Here, we predict what his XI and bench might look like on Saturday afternoon...
1. GK - Robin Roefs
Had a good couple of weeks at the end of a brilliant debut campaign - no doubt he'll continue here | Getty Images
2. RB - Lutsharel Geertruida
Looks likely to leave this summer but has shown his professionalism, quality and commitment with two strong showings to put Sunderland firmly back in the race for European football. Seems certain to continue here at right back | AFP via Getty Images
3. Cb - Nordi Mukiele
Sunderland ideally want Mukiele at right back but Le Bris's reshuffle in Ballard's absence over the last fortnight has worked well. Mukiele is comfortable at centre back and performed strongly, so seems likely to continue. | Getty Images
4. CB - Luke O'Nien
Superb as a substitute against Everton and that seems likely to secure his place in the starting XI given that Omar Alderete is facing a late fitness test and Le Bris is currently expecting to be without him. | Getty Images