Sunderland are back in action on Sunday afternoon (2pm kick off) as they face Oxford United at the Kassam Stadium in the FA Cup fourth round.
Régis Le Bris has some big decisions to make as seeks to steer the Black Cats through to the next round while also guarding against injury and fatigue in his squad. Here’s what we think he might go with, both with his starting XI and his bench..
RLB said on Friday he hadn't decided on his goalkeeper for the game, but reiterated his intention to name a strong side. Having picked Roefs to face Everton, he seems almost certain to continue here for this one.
1. GK - Robin Roefs
RLB said on Friday he hadn't decided on his goalkeeper for the game, but reiterated his intention to name a strong side. Having picked Roefs to face Everton, he seems almost certain to continue here for this one. | Chris Fryatt.
While Nordi Mukiele played a key role at Everton, his heavy recent workload and importance to the team's league game might well make him a candidate for a rest here. If so, will likely lead to Hume dropping a touch deeper.
2. RB - Trai Hume
While Nordi Mukiele played a key role at Everton, his heavy recent workload and importance to the team's league game might well make him a candidate for a rest here. If so, will likely lead to Hume dropping a touch deeper. | Getty Images
One of the first names on the teamsheet in the league and though changes to the backline are likely, Ballard might well be one of those asked to go again.
3. CB - Dan Ballard
One of the first names on the teamsheet in the league and though changes to the backline are likely, Ballard might well be one of those asked to go again. | Getty Images
RLB has confirmed that Omar Alderete will likely be rested for this game as he manages a minor foot issue, and having performed brilliantly against Everton it is almost certain that will pave the way for O'Nien to come into the side.
4. CB - Luke O'Nien
RLB has confirmed that Omar Alderete will likely be rested for this game as he manages a minor foot issue, and having performed brilliantly against Everton it is almost certain that will pave the way for O'Nien to come into the side. | Getty Images