Régis Le Bris and his Sunderland side are hoping to end their superb Premier League campaign with one last win that could potentially secure a place in European competition next season.
Le Bris has some major decisions to make both with his starting XI and his bench, particularly after suffering some key injury setbacks this week. Here’s what we think he’ll go with to face Chelsea, and who could have a massive role to play from the bench...
Had a good couple of weeks at the end of a brilliant debut campaign - no doubt he'll continue here
1. GK - Robin Roefs
Had a good couple of weeks at the end of a brilliant debut campaign - no doubt he'll continue here | Getty Images
Looks likely to leave this summer but has shown his professionalism, quality and commitment with two strong showings to put Sunderland firmly back in the race for European football. Seems certain to continue here at right back
2. RB - Lutsharel Geertruida
Looks likely to leave this summer but has shown his professionalism, quality and commitment with two strong showings to put Sunderland firmly back in the race for European football. Seems certain to continue here at right back | AFP via Getty Images
Sunderland ideally want Mukiele at right back but Le Bris's reshuffle in Ballard's absence over the last fortnight has worked well. Mukiele is comfortable at centre back and performed strongly, so seems likely to continue.
3. Cb - Nordi Mukiele
Sunderland ideally want Mukiele at right back but Le Bris's reshuffle in Ballard's absence over the last fortnight has worked well. Mukiele is comfortable at centre back and performed strongly, so seems likely to continue. | Getty Images
Superb as a substitute against Everton and that seems likely to secure his place in the starting XI given that Omar Alderete is facing a late fitness test and Le Bris is currently expecting to be without him.
4. CB - Luke O'Nien
Superb as a substitute against Everton and that seems likely to secure his place in the starting XI given that Omar Alderete is facing a late fitness test and Le Bris is currently expecting to be without him. | Getty Images