But the recent injury crisis surely makes it inevitable that Lee Johnson will rotate relatively significantly when Oldham Athletic visit the Stadium of Light on Wednesday night.
He has limited options in some key positions, and will be eager to protect the senior players he does have available for a crucial month of league fixtures.
The Black Cats are eager to launch a defence of their trophy, and strong results in the group stages despite significant changes will give Johnson confidence that he can land a positive result while the league remains the overarching priority.
So who could be set for a big opportunity to impress - and press their claims for more regular involvement in the coming weeks? Given a lack of options at full back and central midfield in particular, a number of players will sense opportunity.
We take a closer look…
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The Black Cats are eager to launch a defence of their trophy, and strong results in the group stages despite significant changes will give Johnson confidence that he can land a positive result while the league remains the overarching priority.
5. OLLIE YOUNGER
The central defender has had an excellent Papa John’s Trophy campaign so far. Strong in all three group games, he seems certain to get another chance to prove he is ready should injury or bad form affect one of Johnson’s senior options. With the back three likely to be in place more regularly between now and the January window, it could be an important game for Younger. Photo: FRANK REID 2020
6. CIERAN DUNNE
Luke O’Nien’s injury left Johnson without any senior full back options and so it was notable that it was Dunne who was called onto the bench. The left back has featured previously in the Papa John’s Trophy but injuries have checked his progress over the last year. Fit again, he will be eager to give Johnson something to ponder if he gets the chance. Photo: Frank Reid
7. TYRESE DYCE
Dyce has had a good Papa John’s Trophy campaign so far and that he was not on the bench on Saturday was probably more a reflection of the fact that he has been playing further forward on a relatively regular basis for the U23s. The attacking side of his game is certainly the strongest, as he is quick with the ability to get past opponents. That he can play anywhere down the left, and that Johnson has five subs to play with, means his chances of being involved look pretty good. Photo: FRANK REID 2021
8. HARRISON SOHNA
O’Nien’s injury has left Johnson light of options both at full back and in central midfield, which was compounded when Corry Evans was forced to withdraw in the warm up at Cambridge with a thigh problem. The head coach might want to rest Dan Neil but whether he has the options to do so is another question. Either way, Sohna’s good performances this season will surely be rewarded with a start. Composed and tidy in possession, he slots into the game plan easily. Photo: FRANK REID 2021