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:
17. SUB: Alan Browne
Sunderland have signed Alan Browne after his contract at Preston North End expired this summer. The midfielder looks like he will be a shrewd addition, adding experience and know-how to the Black Cats' midfield. | Ian Horrocks
18. SUB: Salis Abdul Samed
Sunderland are said to be in talks regarding a loan deal for the Lens defensive midfielder | Getty Images
19. SUB: Abdoullah Ba
The 20-year-old signed a five-year deal at Sunderland when he joined the club from French side Le Havre in 2022. Ba made 36 Championship appearances last season. Photo: Nigel Roddis
20. SUB: Aji Alese
The 23-year-old defender has missed large parts of this season due to injury but recently signed a contract extension with the club but is now injured Photo: Frank Reid