Cirkin has been absent with a calf problem while Doyle was another absentee as the Black Cats secured their top-six spot with a 1-0 win over Morecambe.
That forced Luke O’Nien into the back three, with the versatile midfielder producing a solid display alongside Bailey Wright and Danny Batth.
Neil said he was pleased with the 27-year-old’s performance as he largely contained Dylan Connolly.
The Sunderland head coach explained: “It was a particular type of job today for Luke. I’m sure some people will be thinking, ‘Why are we playing a midfield player at left-sided centre-back?’ But if you look at the lad Connolly, his biggest attribute is pace.
“He wants to get in behind and he sucks people under the ball, then uses his pace in behind.
“Luke, for what we’ve got left, has the best tools to deal with that. We’ve come into the game today with a lot of players missing. Unfortunately, we’ve got a lot of players unavailable for a variety of reasons.
“But we’ve managed to put a team together that’s got the job done. Credit to the lads. I’m pleased with Luke for coming in and doing that role.”
O’Nien would be a contender to slot into the back three should Cirkin or Doyle not recover, but Neil remains hopeful that he will have at least one of the pair back.
“I would hope Dennis would be available, although I can’t really commit to anything at this stage,” Neil said.
“I don’t what the answer is just now, but let’s just say that he’s got a chance.
“It’s not one where we’re looking and saying, ‘He’s definitely out’. He’s certainly got a chance.
“Callum was injured. I hope it’s not too serious. I don’t think it is because while I wouldn’t say we had a fitness test [on Friday], he went out to try it and try to train. Unfortunately, he couldn’t make it.”
Check out the latest League One transfer speculation below...
1. Lincoln City issue transfer update
Lincoln City insist the search for a new manager will not hinder their transfer activity ahead of an expected squad overhaul. (LincolnshireLive)
2. Bolton set for contract talks
Ian Evatt is set to conduct talks with Bolton Wanderers’ out-of-contract players today. (The Bolton News)
3. ABERDEEN, SCOTLAND - OCTOBER 03: Scott Brown of Celtic is seen in the warm up during the Ladbrokes Scottish Premiership match between Aberdeen and Celtic at Pittodrie Stadium on October 03, 2021 in Aberdeen, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Scott Brown is a shock name on Fleetwood Town’s radar as their next manager. (The Scottish Sun)
4. Vela offered new deal
Josh Vela has been offered a new contract to extend his stay at Shrewsbury Town. (Shropshire Star)