This is the Sunderland XI our writers would pick for Charlton Athletic clash

Sunderland travel to Charlton Athletic on Saturday looking to build on an encouraging start to the season.
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Phil Parkinson again has some big decisions to make on his starting XI, particularly in the final third.

Here, our writers have their say...

PHIL SMITH

Aiden O'Brien could be in line for a recall to the starting XI on SaturdayAiden O'Brien could be in line for a recall to the starting XI on Saturday
Aiden O'Brien could be in line for a recall to the starting XI on Saturday

It's a familiar set of questions as we gear up for another crucial game.

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Charlton Athletic will be difficult opponents but equally, you expect they will be a far stronger proposition in a month or two when their new signings settle.

Sunderland's back six (including Grant Leadbitter as the holding midfielder) picks itself at the moment, producing consistent performances on a weekly basis.

It's in front of them that we're still discussing the right combinations and pondering the right way to maximise the potential in the squad.

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Parkinson's selection is complicated this week by a couple of niggling injuries.

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Chris Maguire is an automatic pick when fit and on form, that craft and composure on the edge of the area just bringing something different to a side that can at times be a little one-paced.

It would be a surprise if Parkinson was to rush him at The Valley, and it was also interesting to note that the Black Cats boss said at his press conference yesterday he had been a little disappointed with the way he had started that game against Peterborough.

Lynden Gooch is another doubt but Parkinson seemed a little more optimistic about his prospects and that's a good sign.

He wasn't at his best last week but if Maguire isn't fit, he'll be a really important player in terms of bringing something different to the side.

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That role just off the front two, drifting infield from the right of midfield, might just be one that suits him in Maguire's absence.

Team captain Max Power will likely return to the XI, which might mean Josh Scowen misses out.

Up front, it would be good to see Will Grigg get an opportunity but away from home against a decent opponent, I expect it could well be Danny Graham who gets the nod.

Sunderland XI: Burge; Willis, Wright, Flanagan; O'Nien, Leadbitter, Power, Hume; Gooch, O'Brien, Grigg

RICHARD MENNEAR

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Chris Maguire has been a key player for Sunderland so far this campaign but he is a doubt for the trip to Charlton, with Parkinson considering his options.

Maguire would normally be among the first names on the teamsheet so it would prove a huge blow if he were to miss out.

The goalkeeper and defence continue to pick themselves after a solid start to the season, with just one goal, from a penalty, conceded so far.

Grant Leadbitter has brought some much-needed composure and calm to the central midfield ahead of the defence and is a certain starter.

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As ever, one of the biggest question marks is who leads the attack? Charlie Wyke didn't do enough to keep his place, it would be no surprise should Parkinson again opt for Danny Graham's experience away from home but I'd be tempted to start Will Grigg.

Should Maguire miss out then Parkinson will be hoping Lynden Gooch will be fit enough to start alongside Aiden O'Brien, with Sunderland desperate for some craft in that final third.

Sunderland XI: Burge, O'Nien, Willis, Wright, Flanagan, Hume, Leadbitter, Scowen, Gooch, O'Brien, Grigg

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