Régis Le Bris has some big calls to make as Sunderland return to Carabao Cup action at the Stadium of Light this week.
The competition quite clearly sits bottom of the club’s priorities for the campaign ahead, but they are just one game away from a quarter final and have a number of senior players who would benefit from more minutes. Here’s our best guess as to how he will approach it, both from the start and with his bench...
5. LB - Dayann Methalie
Looked a real threat going forward in Poznan last Thursday and this game looks a good opportunity to get him another ninety-minute outing. | Sunderland Echo, Chris Fryatt
6. CM - Jules Ahoka
Has made a very impressive start to his Sunderland career and Le Bris will therefore have no concerns about playing him against Premier League opposition again here. | Getty Images
7. CM - Habib Diarra
Probably the toughest position to call. Rigg played in this position in the previous round but looks quite likely to start off the right on Saturday. Diarra would benefit from more minutes, and could start if Le Bris is minded to use him as an impact sub at the weekend. Another option is Alan Browne, who came off bench in the last round and continues to train regularly with the senior team.
8. RW - Jocelin Ta Bi
Ta Bi started in the previous round and had a good game and so seems almost certain in here to top his minutes up. | Chris Fryatt