Le Bris ‘to make Mayenda decision’ – Sunderland predicted XI v Coventry
Regis Le Bris will want to see a reaction from his Sunderland team when they travel to face Coventry City on Saturday.
Off the back of a controversial 1-1 draw against Preston, Sunderland return to action this weekend with an away trip to Coventry City.
Their failure to secure victory against Paul Heckingbottom’s side proved to be a missed opportunity, with both Sheffield United and Burnley also dropping points.
However, whether a top-two finish remains possible or not, the Black Cats need to finish the current campaign as strongly as possible, and Le Bris will have several decisions to make on his team selection.
Anthony Patterson remains in goal for Sunderland
Despite Anthony Patterson having come in for plenty of criticism recently, Le Bris has kept his faith hin him, and it will be no different for the clash with Country.
In defence, the Frenchman should stick with the same back four that has brought plenty of success with Dennis Cirkin and Trai Hume occupying the fullback roles, with Luke O’Nien and Chris Mepham starting in the heart of defence.
| Sunderland – Coventry comparison | Position | Goals per game | Conceded per game |
| Sunderland | 4th | 1.49 | 0.92 |
| Coventry | 6th | 1.41 | 1.30 |
Dan Neil has gone from strength to strength this season from Sunderland, and he will simply start every game when he is fit, with one change expected alongside him.
Chris Rigg was excellent after coming on against Preston and should be rewarded with a start alongside Jobe Bellingham, who has excelled throughout the campaign.
Sunderland to revert to a front three v Coventry
Patrick Roberts has had a troubled season in terms of contributions, though his value to the team cannot be undermined, and he will be crucial to a win against Coventry.
Romaine Mundle scored his first goal for the Mackems since returning from injury and should replace Tommy Watson, who struggled to influence the game on Tuesday night.
Leading the line could be Wilson Isidor after Le Bris spoke about the need to rotate his attacking options prior to the win against Cardiff.
Eliezer Mayenda received a minor knock last time out and could sit this one on the bench.