Régis Le Bris is facing one of his toughest selections of the campaign as Sunderland welcome Burnley to the Stadium of Light on Monday night.
With Granit Xhaka still absent and off the back of a disappointing defeat to West Ham United, the Sunderland head coach has some major decisions to make as the Black Cats look to get straight back to winning ways. Here’s how we think the starting XI and bench might look...
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