Alex Neil’s side returned from Portugal this week after their eight-day training camp, and held their own for large spells against Serie A side Roma on Wednesday.
The match finished 2-0 to the Italian club, yet Neil will have been encouraged by the performance.
Striker Ross Stewart missed the match with a minor injury, and Neil will have to weigh up if the striker is ready to return against Dundee United, with a lack of forward alternatives.
Here’s our predicted Sunderland line-up for the match:
5. LB: Lynden Gooch
Sunderland remain short of options at left-back and have been over reliant on Dennis Cirkin. Gooch has played in the position before and may be needed there with less than two weeks until the start of the new campaign. Photo: National World
6. CM: Corry Evans
The side’s first-choice option in the holding midfield role. Is expected to return to the starting XI after sitting out the Roma match. Photo: National World
7. CM: Dan Neil
Looked refreshed against Rangers and replaced Luke O’Nien just before half-time against Roma. Pre-season will provide a big opportunity for the 20-year-old who wasn’t a regular starter under Alex Neil last season. Photo: National World
8. RW: Patrick Roberts
Came on in the second half against Roma and should benefit from a full pre-season which he hasn’t had in recent years. Photo: National World