Alan Browne axed, two changes - Sunderland predicted XI v Cardiff
Sunderland return to the Stadium of Light this weekend to face relegation-threatened Cardiff City, with Regis Le Bris expected to make at least two changes.
Off the back of a crucial 2-1 victory away to Sheffield Wednesday, the Black Cats return to home soil with hopes of remaining in the promotion conversation.
Automatic promotion seems unlikely for Sunderland, but until the maths are against them, they still have a chance of a top-two finish.
However, a win against Cardiff will be paramount to maintaining those credentials, and in order to achieve that, Le Bris could make two changes.
Dennis Cirkin back in for Sunderland
Anthony Patterson has been under scrutiny as of late and did himself no favours for the goal conceded at Hillsborough, though he made up for it with an excellent save later in the game.
He should retain his place in the XI with one change expected in the defence in front of him.
Trai Hume was magnificent again and will remain in the starting lineup alongside Luke O’Nien and Chris Mepham, despite the latter making an error that led to the goal on Friday night.
Leo Hjelde was drafted into the team against Sheffield Wednesday, but Dennis Cirkin is expected to come back into the lineup at the Stadium of Light
| CHAMPIONSHIP | XPTS | TITLE | PROMOTION | PROMOTION VIA P/O |
| Leeds | 99.23 | 85.24% | 98.66% | 2.84% |
| Sheffield United | 92.37 | 8.74% | 56.54% | 43.46% |
| Burnley | 90.94 | 6.02% | 44.82% | 55.18% |
| Sunderland | 82.71 | 0.02% | 1.48% | 98.32% |
| Coventry | 70 | 0% | 0% | 54% |
| West Brom | 69.05 | 0% | 0% | 50.50% |
As for the midfield, Dan Neil is a guaranteed starter when fit alongside Jobe, with the duo expected to start alongside each other yet again against Cardiff.
Alan Browne made his first start since returning from injury, though he could be demoted to the bench in favour of a more attacking change further forward.
Patrick Roberts and Romaine Mundle remain as the only fit wingers at Sunderland, making it almost guaranteed that the duo will start on opposite flanks.
Wilson Isidor returns to the XI for Sunderland
As for the attack, Wilson Isidor will come back into the lineup, replacing Browne. It would be a very attacking change, but one that could pay off against a team likely to sit back and absorb the pressure dealt by Sunderland.
Isidor should be partnered by Eliezer Mayenda as part of a front two. A decision that should be made throughout the remainder of the campaign if the Black Cats are to be successful in their promotion bid.