Régis Le Bris has a difficult balancing act on Saturday as Sunderland begin their FA Cup campaign against Everton.
The Black Cats boss has pledged to pick the strongest team possible but admits that he needs to rest some players after what was a punishing festive schedule. Here, we predict what the starting XI and the bench could look like as Sunderland travel to the Hill Dickinson Stadium for the first time...
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