Chemsdine Talbi axed in two changes – Sunderland predicted XI vs Liverpool
A trip to Anfield is up next for Sunderland as they prepare to face Liverpool.
Sunderland’s 3-2 victory against Bournemouth will go down as one of the best games of the season, but with the festive period upon us, there is little room for celebration.
Liverpool play host to Sunderland on Wednesday, having endured a mixed campaign under Arne Slot.
The Reds have won just four of their last 13 games in all competitions, with the Black Cats looking to pile extra pressure this week, and to do that, Regis Le Bris could make two changes to the side that beat the Cherries at the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland to return to a back five
Sunderland suffered defeat to Fulham on their last away trip, and a lot of that was down to Le Bris’ choice to utilise a back five.
Against teams of that calibre, it makes little sense to do so, but away to Liverpool, the Frenchman would be justified in making that decision.
If so, it could see Lutsharel Geertruida return to the starting 11 to feature alongside Omar Alderete and Dan Ballard, with Reinildo and Nordi Mukiele playing as the wing-backs.
Chemsdine Talbi would be the one to make way, having done little to impress on his return to the starting 11 against Bournemouth.
Granit Xhaka earned his plaudits again at the weekend, and despite being one yellow card away from a suspension, he will start against the Reds with Noah Sadiki partnering him.
Sadiki is also on four yellow cards, amplifying the fears that one of Sunderland’s midfield duo could miss the clash with Newcastle in under two weeks.
Bertrand Traore starts again as Brian Brobbey makes full debut
Bertrand Traore has come in for plenty of criticism this season, but his display against the Cherries showcased why he is in the team.
Not only did he score the goal to get Sunderland level, but he was a constant threat on the right-wing, and more than played his part defensively.
Enzo Le Fee has been the unsung hero for Sunderland this season, and after a goal and an assist against the Cherries, his place in the starting 11 is safe.
However, if the Black Cats are to play a back five, it could see him feature on the left-wing again, despite impressing in the middle
Brian Brobbey leads the line after scoring yet another clutch goal for the Mackems, with Wilson Isidor somewhat out of form.
His physicality will be key against the Reds, and Le Bris needs to hand him a chance to showcase his worth sooner rather than later.
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