Sunderland return to Championship action next weekend looking to build on their excellent start to the season at Hull City.
The Tigers fell to a heavy defeat against Norwich City in their last outing but had won three games before that as they battled back from a poor start to the campaign under new boss Tim Walter. Both Walter and Regis Le Bris have some injury concerns to contend with, and some big decisions to make. Here’s the early team news for both sides.
5. Femi Seriki - available
Suffered an injury on the final day of the regular season and missed the semi final but Wilder has said he'll be back for Wembley. An option at right back, though Hamza Choudury has been excellent out of position there of late so will likely continue. | Getty Images
6. Ben Brereton Diaz - available
Missed the two legs of the semi finals due to a virus but Wilder has said he expects him to be available to feature at Wembley. | Ian Hodgson/PA Wire
7. Aji Alese - doubt
Alese almost made an unlikely return to the squad for the semi finals after suffering a serious injury in January but Le Bris confirmed last Monday that he needed another week to be ready. He should therefore be in contention to feature, but Le Bris will have a decision to make about the extent of his possible involvement. Photo: Nathan Stirk
8. Ian Poveda - doubt
Spotted back in training this week but big question marks as to whether Le Bris will include him given how little football he has played this year and season. | Frank Reid