Tony Mowbray’s side are eighth in the table following a 1-1 draw at Blackpool on New Year’s Day but are just three points ahead of Swansea in 15th.
Sunderland are still dealing with several injury issues, with Aji Alese, Dennis Cirkin, Alex Pritchard and Elliot Embleton still sidelined for the fixture.
Danny Batth and captain Corry Evans will be available again, though, while Lynden Gooch returned to the bench at Shrewsbury in the FA Cup last weekend.
Here’s our predicted Sunderland XI to face Swansea at the Stadium of Light:
1. GK: Anthony Patterson
The Sunderland keeper didn’t have many saves to make against Norwich last weekend but did well to deal with some late crosses. Photo: Frank Reid
2. RB: Trai Hume
Hume has started every game for Sunderland this season and produced an excellent display against Norwich, getting on the scoresheet with a deflected effort. Photo: Frank Reid
3. CB: Dan Ballard
Ballard has picked up four yellow cards this season. One more booking would result in a one-match suspension. Photo: Frank Reid
4. CB: Luke O’Nien
O’Nien is also on four yellow cards and is walking a disciplinary tightrope after being booked against Norwich last time out. Photo: Frank Reid