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…
13. ALEX BASS
Bass got 45 minutes under his belt against Al-Shabab and made one very good save high to his right to keep his side in the lead. Photo: FRANK REID
14. ROSS STEWART
Can the Scot make the squad this weekend? He wasn’t involved on Friday but did take some part in training through the week, and so isn’t yet ruled out. It would be a massive bonus to Mowbray, even if he has already warned that he’ll have to be slowly phased back in after a relatively long period out. Sunderland are nearing the welcome moment where they’ll have a striker for the whole game, and maybe even two at times. Photo: FRANK REID
15. LUKE O'NIEN
O’Nien would be unfortunate not to be in the team and may yet still be. Either way, his versatility and recent form mean he’ll almost certainly have a role to play. Photo: FRANK REID
16. PATRICK ROBERTS
Will have a crucial role, whether it’s from the start or later on. Mowbray has previously said he sees him as one of the best players in the league and so will be determined to keep finding important roles for him. Photo: Frank Reid