This is the Sunderland XI Lee Johnson could turn to as Papa John's Trophy group stage comes to a close
It's a game you suspect both sides could probably do without, all things considered.
By Phil Smith
Published 9th Nov 2021, 08:00 BST
Updated 9th Nov 2021, 08:13 BST
Like Sunderland, Bradford City have expectations of winning promotion from their division and the Papa John's Trophy is well down their list of priorities.
So much so, in fact, that two games have yielded no points and as such, they cannot qualify for the next round.
Sunderland are already through, thanks to two excellent performances from two very youthful sides.
It will be the same again at the Stadium of Light, with Lee Johnson likely to deploy only a handful of senior players.
There will be some minutes for those short of match fitness, and he will hope that a bright display can help to build some positive momentum ahead of the visit of Ipswich Town on Saturday week.
Though the league form is clearly the club's biggest priority at the moment, it's another chance for a promising group of U23 players to further underline the progress they are making.
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
Sunderland are already through, thanks to two excellent performances from two very youthful sides.
5. LB - TYRESE DYCE
His game time at Stoke was managed this weekend and with Johnson's full back options limited, this could be another chance for him to show he has a bright future.
Has shown pace and a real attacking threat since joining the club, which enables him to play anywhere down the left flank. Photo: FRANK REID 2021
The young midfielder was not involved at Stoke City on Sunday afternoon and made a real impression on supporters in the previous two group games.
Composed and tidy in possession, he's a neat fit for the style and will be looking to try and build on that here. He has made a very solid start to his Wearside career following the summer move from Aston Villa. Photo: Frank Reid
The midfielder has had a heavy workload of late but played only twenty minutes on Saturday, so could be asked to play his part before the break ahead of the Ipswich game. Photo: FRANK REID 2021
Gooch's progress this season has been hampered by a foot injury which kept him sidelined for the best part of a month, but he continued his comeback with 45 minutes in the second half against Mansfield.
Though it seems unlikely he'll play the entire game here, he's an obvious option to add some experience and energy to what will mostly be a young side.
A good performance would be a boost ahead of the break and that crucial game against Ipswich. Photo: FRANK REID 2020