Sunderland are preparing to face Watford at the Stadium of Light - but who will start for The Black Cats?
Tony Mowbray’s side got back to winning ways with a convincing 3-0 win at Sheffield Wednesday on Friday night, courtesy of Dan Ballard’s header and two goals from Jack Clarke.
Sunderland still have several players unavailable due to injury setbacks, yet some first-team members could return against The Hornets.
Here’s our predicted Sunderland XI to face Watford at the Stadium of Light:
5. LB: Niall Huggins
After his constant injury setbacks, Huggins has now started Sunderland’s last four league games at left-back and is looking more comfortable in the role. Photo: Frank Reid
6. CM: Dan Neil
Neil has enjoyed a fine start to the season, while dropping back into a deeper midfield role following Pierre Ekwah’s injury setback. Photo: Frank Reid
7. CM: Jobe Bellingham
The teenager has moved into a central midfield role due to Ekwah’s injury and adjusted well in recent weeks. Ekwah may return to the squad against Watord but may not be ready to start the game. Photo: Chris Fryatt
8. RW: Patrick Roberts
Roberts returned to Sunderland’s starting XI against Sheffield Wednesday after starting three games on the bench following a hamstring issue. Photo: Frank Reid