Sunderland are preparing for their Carabao Cup first-round tie against League Two side Crewe - but who will start for the Black Cats?
Tony Mowbray’s team were beaten 2-1 by Ipswich on Sunday and face a quick turnaround in their second game of the season.
The Black Cats boss is set to make wholesale changes for the cup fixture, with some of Sunderland’s new signings set to feature.
Here’s our predicted Sunderland team to face Crewe at the Stadium of Light:
1. GK: Nathan Bishop
After joining Sunderland on a three-year deal from Manchester United, the 23-year-old will hope to challenge first-choice goalkeeper Anthony Patterson this season. Photo: Sean M. Haffey
2. RB: Niall Huggins
The 22-year-old struggled in a central midfield role during a friendly against Hartlepool last week but looked more comfortable when he moved to full-back. Photo: Frank Reid
3. CB: Danny Batth
Mowbray has confirmed Batth is set to start against Crewe despite interest from Championship club Blackburn this summer. Photo: Frank Reid
4. CB: Nectarios Triantis
Sunderland have competition for places at the back, with Triantis expected to make his first competitive start for the Black Cats. Photo: Frank Reid