Régis Le Bris dropped a big team selection hint in his pre-match press conference on Thursday, confirming that he has no intention of making wholesale changes to his starting XI in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.
However, he did confirm his intention to make ‘a couple’ of changes, while the bench could also be bolstered by some players returning from injury. So this is what we thinking his starting XI and bench might look like when Stoke City arrive at the Stadium of Light...
13. Sub - Aji Alese
Will be in contention for a start and will likely get minutes off the bench if not. | Frank Reid Photo: Frank Reid
14. Sub - Nazariy Rusyn
Rusyn looks likely to leave this month but has been a substitute in the last two games and so will likely be involved here. | Frank Reid
15. Sub - Salis Abdul Samed
Samed is finally set to be named in a matchday squad on Saturday, ending his long wait for a debut. Could well get some minutes late on replacing Neil, depending on the game situation. | AFP via Getty Images
16. Sub - Trey Ogunsuyi
Highly-rated young striker could make his debut from the bench depending on the game situation. | Frank Reid