Last time out the lads got a credible draw with Crystal Palace, however Enzo Le Fee’s injury meant we missed out on his creative spark. Le Fee’s available again today, so will he come straight back into the team? Dan Ballard is available as well after missing out on the last couple of games through injury. Here’s how we think Sunderland will line up today.
Goalkeeper: Robin Roefs
Roefs produced a fantastic display last time out – hopefully he’s not as busy as he was in the second half of last week’s game today!
Defence: Trai Hume, Nordi Mukiele, Omar Alderete, Reinildo
Dan Ballard
is back fit and available for selection, but may have to do with a place on the bench after Mukiele and Alderete produced fantastic performances to keep Palace out last weekend. Geertruida came off the bench last week and will likely find himself in the team sooner rather than later, but Trai Hume’s in possession of a shirt at present and has not let anyone down – he should keep his place today. At left back will be Reinildo, who’s looked every bit the accomplished full back he was billed as upon signing.
Midfield: Granit Xhaka, Noah Sadiki, Habib Diarra
This is our first choice midfield and consistency in selection here is key as we look to build up understandings and performances. Xhaka’s been superb since arriving, and while Sadiki and Diarra have done well in flashes, I’m looking forward to seeing them both have more impact on the game as they find their feet. Sadiki did get a knock at Palace but according to Le Bris is fit, while there were message board rumours about Diarra’s fitness, but nothing official has been confirmed.
Attack: Simon Adingra, Brian Brobbey, Enzo Le Fee
Up front is where the biggest selection issues are for Le Bris – and they’re all good issues to have. Mayenda started the first three up front and Wilson got the nod at Palace, but Brobbey has been signed to play and I think we’ll want to get him in the team as soon as possible. A home game after a good week’s training could be the perfect time. Le Fee should come back in on the left – he would have played at Palace if not for injury – and I think Adingra could move over to the right to give Talbi a breather today.
