With the focus turned away from League One action, there’s a chance for youngsters and fringe players to stake their claim in the cup competitions.
And with that in mind, we’ve named our predicted team to line-up against the Stags on Saturday – with just two survivors from the win over Ipswich.
Scroll down and click through to see who we’re predicting to start:
. Manager Phil Parkinson. Sunderland AFC 1-1 Bristol Rovers FC EFL 1 Stadium of Light 12th September 2020. Picture by FRANK REID
Is this the Sunderland team that could start against Mansfield Town? Photo: Frank Reid
. Remi Matthews
All of the stopper's appearances for Sunderland so far have been limited to cup competitions, so it would be little surprise to see him given the nod between the sticks against the Stags. Photo: FRANK REID 2020
. Dion Sanderson
The Wolves loanee looked solid on his debut at Rochdale but hasn't started a game since. This could prove an ideal opportunity to get some valuable minutes into him ahead of some key league fixtures - in which he is likely to be involved given international call-ups. Photo: Frank Reid
. Bailey Wright
Sunderland's options at the heart of their back three are limited, so Wright may well be asked to play once more. You would expect he would be rested at Fleetwood, though. Photo: Frank Reid
9. Dan Neil
Sunderland fans have long been calling for Neil to be handed an opportunity in the first team, and this game well may prove the ideal opportunity. Photo: FRANK REID 2020
10. Danny Graham
Graham has been a regular from the bench in recent weeks, but will no doubt be itching for a start - which could come against the Stags. Photo: Frank Reid
11. Will Grigg
Grigg hasn't started a game since the opening day of the season, but that will surely change this week with two cup games on the horizon. A big chance for the striker to impress. Photo: Frank Reid