Chris Rigg started his first league start of the season at the Stadium of Light on Sunday as the Black Cats raced into a 3-0 lead at half-time after goals from Dennis Cirkin, Eliezer Mayenda and Luke O’Nien. Mayenda then netted his second and Sunderland’s fourth seconds into the second half.
Regis Le Bris made one change to his Sunderland team to face Sheffield Wednesday, with Rigg replacing Alan Browne. The Irishman misses out due to a muscle injury but it’s understood that the problem is not serious and is unlikely to keep him sidelined for a significant period. At this stage, he’s expected to be fit to face Burnley at the Stadium of Light next weekend.
The win against Sheffield Wednesday marked Sunderland’s second of the Championship season in as many games after Le Bris side bettered Cardiff City 2-0 on the opening day of the season. Despite their winning start, however, the Black Cats are still hoping to conclude some transfer business this window.
Here, we take a look at how Le Bris’ dream starting XI and squad could look if Jack Clarke decides to stay and Sunderland secure their preferred striker options this summer:
13. SUB: Simon Moore
Former Coventry City and Sheffield United goalkeeper Simon Moore has signed a two-year deal to join the Black Cats, with the club holding the option for a further year. The club’s sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said that the goalkeeper would add valuable competition for Anthony Patterson, | Ian Horrocks
14. SUB: Luke O' Nien
O’Nien is into his sixth season at Sunderland and remains a key player for the club. The 29-year-old signed a new three-year deal this last August, with a club option of a further year. The centre-back provides leadership and experience to the club's young playing squad. | Getty Images
15. SUB: Leo Hjelde
Hjelde, 20, signed a four-and-a-half-year deal when he joined Sunderland from Leeds United in January. Photo: Frank Reid
16. SUB: Nectar Triantis
Triantis joined Sunderland from Australian side Central Coast Mariners in June, signing a four-year contract at the Stadium of Light. The 20-year-old has impressed since at SPL side Hibernian in January after joining in loan and will be hoping for more opportunities on Wearside next season. Photo: Frank Reid