Promotion from League One is clearly the priority for Sunderland this season, and Johnson has used the cup competitions to rotate his side.
But with a quarter-final place up for grabs, there is a real opportunity to reach the latter stages.
Johnson will also be wary of two important away fixtures against Rotherham and Sheffield Wednesday which are coming up.
Sunderland dropped to fourth in League One, albeit with games in hand on most of the sides around them, following Saturday’s defeat by Charlton, putting extra importance on the next few league games.
The Black Cats have had several players sidelined through injury in recent weeks but are close to having a fully-fit squad again.
Here's the side we think could start against QPR:
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. Lee Johnson Safc 0-1 Cafc EFL1 Stadium of Light 23-10-2021. Picture by FRANK REID
Sunderland boss Lee Johnson. Photo: Frank Reid
. GK: Lee Burge
The keeper has fallen down the pecking order since Thorben Hoffmann's arrival but has received game time in cup competitions. Photo: JPI Media
9. LW: Leon Dajaku
Has looked bright in bursts since his summer move. Will now be hoping for more starts after building up his fitness. Photo: JPI Media
10. CAM: Alex Pritchard
With Elliot Embleton still suspended, Pritchard is likely to get another chance to impress in the No 10 position. Photo: JPI Media
11. ST: Ross Stewart
The game is likely to come too soon for Nathan Broadhead so Stewart is unlikely to be rested. The lack of options up front is a bit of a concern for Johnson. Photo: JPI Media
