Sunderland players warming up.Sunderland players warming up.
Sunderland players warming up.

The Sunderland team which is expected to face Bolton Wanderers - with competition for places among Lee Johnson's squad

Sunderland will return to league action this weekend – and head coach Lee Johnson has competition for places ahead of his side’s meeting with Bolton Wanderers.

The Black Cats beat Wigan Athletic 2-0 in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday as Johnson made eight changes to his side at the DW Stadium.

Several players took their opportunities to impress in midweek, yet Sunderland have also won five of their first seven league games so far this campaign.

For that reason, Johnson will be expected to recall several of his first-team players for the game against Bolton at the Stadium of Light.

Wanderers sit eighth in the League One table ahead of the match but were beaten 2-0 by Rotherham last time out.

Ian Evatt’s side came up from League Two last season and are now targeting back-to-back promotions this term.

Here’s the Sunderland side we think could start against Bolton this weekend.

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Sunderland AFC coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription to our new sports-only package here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor