Régis Le Bris and his Sunderland side are looking to keep their positive momentum going when they travel to face Aston Villa on Sunday.
Unai Emery’s side will pose a stern test of their credentials, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League and having booked their place in the last four of the Europa League this week. Both bosses have some big selection calls to make - here’s the latest team news from both camps as we currently have it...
Missed last weekend's 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest with a minor injury but returned for the second leg Europa League win over Bologna on Thursday night
1. Emiliano Martinez - available
Missed last weekend's 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest with a minor injury but returned for the second leg Europa League win over Bologna on Thursday night | Local Library
Le Bris confirmed that Ballard has been back in full training this week after missing the last two games with a hamstring issue. However, he won't be rushed back and so will likely return on the bench for this one.
2. Dan Ballard - available
Le Bris confirmed that Ballard has been back in full training this week after missing the last two games with a hamstring issue. However, he won't be rushed back and so will likely return on the bench for this one. Photo: Jordan Pettitt
Sunday's game will come too soon but the winger is making good progress and could be available to face Nottingham Forest next weekend, though the trip to Wolves is probably a more realistic return date.
3. Nilson Angulo - out
Sunday's game will come too soon but the winger is making good progress and could be available to face Nottingham Forest next weekend, though the trip to Wolves is probably a more realistic return date. | Nilson Angulo of Sunderland against Port Vale. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
Returned to the squad on Thursday night after a minor injury.
4. Tyrone Mings - available
Returned to the squad on Thursday night after a minor injury. | Local Library