'We’ve already won' - Lee Johnson team selection pleases Sunderland fans as crucial figures return

Lee Johnson has named his starting XI to face Wigan Athletic this evening.

Sunderland are looking to bounce back from a disappointing defeat against Charlton Athletic over the weekend, which dented Sunderland’s automatic promotion hopes.

The Black Cats have an opportunity to close the gap on Peterborough United and Hull City by winning against relegation struggling Wigan Athletic tonight.

Denver Hume has replaced Callum McFadzean at left-back whilst Bailey Wright takes a spot on the bench and there are also starts for Jordan Jones and Jack Diamond.

Wes Burns of Fleetwood Town battles for possession with Denver Hume of Sunderland during the Sky Bet League One match between Fleetwood Town and Sunderland at Highbury Stadiumplaceholder image
Wes Burns of Fleetwood Town battles for possession with Denver Hume of Sunderland during the Sky Bet League One match between Fleetwood Town and Sunderland at Highbury Stadium

And, as usual, Wearsiders have been quick to react to the starting XI.

Here’s how you reacted on Twitter to Johnson’s team to face Wigan Athletic at the DW Stadium:

@danwalkerxx: “Hume, Diamond, Jones, and Geads yes lad.”

@NRaine97: “Naughty that team. Nothing less than a win is acceptable, haway lads.”

@DanielSAFC_: “Hume starting. We’ve already won.”

@jessecutter1997: “Attack attack attack.”

@gyrwum: “Fair enough if Wright isn’t fit to start just yet. Is that Jones as a 10 again?”

@JoeDB__: “We’re winning every remaining game if Wright is in for McLaughlin next game.”

@Richard_Purdom: “Strong squad! Good to see Hume in the XI and Wright returning to the bench!”

@TheMightyNews: “Attacking team that. Hume Diamond Jones McGeady.”

@shanehagan24: “Diamond, McGeady and Jones. Yeah we’re going for the kill. You love to see it.”

@RyanC2408: “JOSH SCOWEN WHY?”

@GazJFisher: “Think this is 3-4-3 with Diamond playing RWB.”

@Kevsol: “With the exception of Scowen in centre-mid, I really like the look of that team. Fair play to Johnson, I'd have went radio rental if Gooch and McFadzean had been playing. Great to see an actual RB at RB too.”

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Sunderland AFC coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription to our new sports-only package here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor

News you can trust since 1873
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice