Credit: Imago

Josh Edwards

Tue 15 April 2025 17:00, UK

Sunderland are back in action this Friday, with an away encounter against potential playoff opponents Bristol City.

Performances have left a lot to be desired as of late for Sunderland, with their latest 1-0 defeat to Swansea City a showcase of their regression. 

Having sealed their spot in the playoffs weeks ago, their displays have lacked intensity and desire with very little left to play for.

However, Regis Le Bris will be keen to get his side firing on all cylinders ahead of the playoffs, and in order to achieve that, he could make three changes to his side that fell to a defeat against the Swans.

Sunderland need to get back to winning ways

Le Bris has very few options defensively, so it’s likely that he will stick with the same back five from the recent defeat.

Anthony Patterson is almost certainly going to start between the sticks, with a back four of Alan Browne, Luke O’Nien, Chris Mepham and Trai Hume protecting him.

The first change could see Dan Neil drop out of the starting 11 for Salis Abdul Samed, who has had a troubled time at Sunderland so far. 

Le Bris has showcased his willingness to rest his best players, and Neil will be pivotal to their hopes of achieving promotion. 

Sunderland are lacking firepower

Chris Rigg could retain his place in midfield alongside Milan Aleksic, who struggled to impress when played out wide for Sunderland, though a start in his preferred position could provide him with what he needs to succeed. 

Patrick Roberts is likely to start on the right flank, with Eliezer Mayenda replacing Tommy Watson on the left, after the reaction he got from Sunderland supporters after his withdrawal against Swansea.

Wilson Isidor will be looking to end his run of games without a goal, and Le Bris may once again afford him the chance to do that against the Robins.