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...
17. Sub - Chris Rigg
Rigg could be in contention for a start but Sunderland migth opt to bring him back gradually. | Chris Rigg vs Norwich City. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
18. Sub - Zak Johnson
Should offer cover on the right side of defence. Could go out on loan at the end of the window. | Ben Cuthbertson Photo: Ben Cuthbertson
19. Sub - Harrison Jones
Like Johnson, Jones could be in line for a loan move towards the end of the month. Will hope for some minutes here. | Frank Reid
20. Sub - Patrick Roberts
Roberts could well be rested for this game but might be on the bench if required for a late impact. | Patrick Roberts vs Norwich City. Photo by Chris Fryatt.