Tony Mowbray’s side drew 1-1 with Hull City last time out and now face three games in a seven-day period.
Elliot Embleton is set to be sidelined for an extended period after fracturing his ankle against Hull, while Danny Batth and Alex Pritchard will also both miss the Boxing Day match with a calf issues.
Here’s our predicted Sunderland line-up to face Blackburn:
1. GK: Anthony Patterson
Patterson didn’t have many shots to save at QPR after being beaten by Kenneth Paal’s low shot in the first half. The keeper did help start attacks with his distribution from the back. Photo: Frank Reid
2. RB: Trai Hume
Hume regularly stepped into midfield from right-back against QPR, demonstrating his versatility and qualities in and out of possession. Photo: Frank Reid
3. CB: Luke O’Nien
The centre-back’s job was made easier against QPR after an early red card for the hosts. O’Nien continues to captain Sunderland and produced another good display at Loftus Road. Photo: Frank Reid
4. CB: Dan Ballard
After a tough early battle with QPR striker Sinclair Armstrong, Ballard scored his first Sunderland goal to give his side the lead at Loftus Road. Photo: Frank Reid