Tony Mowbray’s side were beaten 1-0 by Cardiff last time out and have one game remaining before the World Cup break.
Several Sunderland players, including Ross Stewart, Aji Alese, Lynden Gooch and Daniel Ballard, remain unavailable for the Birmingham match due to injuries.
Luke O’Nien will also serve a one-match suspension for picking up five yellow cards.
Here’s our predicted Sunderland XI to face Birmingham.
5. LB: Dennis Cirkin
With Aji Alese still sidelined with an injury, Sunderland remain short of options at left-back, placing more importance on Cirkin. Photo: Frank Reid
6. CM: Corry Evans
Sunderland missed their captain against Cardiff and the side had more balance when Evans came off the bench in the second half. Photo: Stu Forster
7. CM: Dan Neil
The midfielder struggled against Cardiff but has performed well alongside Evans this season. Photo: Martin Swinney
8. RW: Patrick Roberts
Has started Sunderland’s last two games after missing the Burnley defeat with a knock. Photo: Martin Swinney