Régis Le Bris has some huge decisions to make as Sunderland look to bounce back from their FA Cup defeat to Port Vale against Brighton on Saturday.
While his squad will be bolstered by the return of some key players for Brighton’s visit, he is still having to manage some significant absentees and has some major dilemmas as a result. Here’s what we think he might go with at the Stadium of Light, both with his starting XI and his bench...
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