The exciting Sunderland XI Tony Mowbray could name after latest injury reveal and who might miss out - photo gallery
It’s why he said in the aftermath of the 1-0 friendly win last Friday that he believes it could be an exciting second half of the campaign.
The extensive injury list has not fully cleared but it is getting there, and some key figures are pushing for inclusion at the weekend. While there are a number of big decisions to be made as to the starting XI - perhaps most significant is the impact that it will have on Mowbray’s bench. For the first time, he’ll have depth and variety in almost every position to switch things up in the game.
It could also lead to some very good players missing out entirely, both this weekend and moving forward Here, we explain how it could shake out…
It could also lead to some very good players missing out entirely, both this weekend and moving forward Here, we explain how it could shake out…
5. LB - DENNIS CIRKIN
Showed no sign of his recent injury in a good cameo against Al-Shabab last Friday, breaking forward into dangerous areas with regularity. Niall Huggins has made an excellent return from injury but as he continues his comeback it’d be a surprise if Cirkin wasn’t selected. Photo: FRANK REID 2022
6. CDM - CORRY EVANS
One of, if not the first, names on Mowbray’s team sheet. The head coach is seeing his attacking options improve rapidly but his captain is key to ensuring he can keep a balance against a side with plenty of its own attacking threat. Photo: Frank Reid
7. CM - DAN NEIL
The talented youngster had one of his best games of the season against Birmingham in and out of possession, which will surely secure his place for Millwall. Will face more competition from an improving Jay Matete and a fit Edouard Michut in future weeks. Photo: Frank Reid
8. CM - ALEX PRITCHARD
Has been a key player for the last year or so as part of the experienced spine in an otherwise young side. As we’ll come to next - his otherwise relatively secure place could in time be pressured by a welcome dilemma for Mowbray. It’s the kind of healthy competition he’s craved. Photo: FRANK REID 2022