Patrick Roberts axed as Le Bris makes Mundle decision – Sunderland predicted XI vs Coventry
Sunderland are preparing for their massive second leg in the play-off semi-finals against Coventry City on Tuesday.
Goals from Wilson Isidor and Eliezer Mayenda ensured that Regis Le Bris’ side will go into the game with a slender 2-1 lead.
Expectations will be high at the Stadium of Light, with the Black Cats now just two games away from a Premier League return.
However, Sunderland have previously led in the playoffs before being knocked out, and Le Bris must ensure that this does not happen again.
With this in mind, the Black Cats manager must make some harsh decisions to ensure that this lead is seen out.
Alan Browne must return to Sunderland’s starting XI v Coventry
After Sunderland’s impressive victory over Coventry City, it is hard to see where Le Bris changes his line-up for the match.
Anthony Patterson will be expected to keep his place in goal with Dennis Cirkin and Trai Hume operating as the full-backs.
Dan Ballard should keep his place after his man-of-the-match performance against Coventry. The defender will likely be partnered with Luke O’Nien.
| Sunderland’s last 10 matches against Coventry City | |
| Wins | 1 |
| Draws | 4 |
| Losses | 5 |
The first change comes in the midfield as Patrick Roberts comes out of the team for Alan Browne on the right. The 30-year-old would add a vital bit of experience to the midfield and help the squad see out their lead.
In the centre, it remains Jobe Bellingham and Dan Neil, with Enzo Le Fee keeping his spot on the left-hand side.
Up top, the two goal scorers for the first leg both keep their place as Isidor and Mayenda look to add to their ever-growing total.
The question for Le Bris will be whether he should bring Romaine Mundle back into the starting XI. Mundle is expected to be fit for the second leg, however, he should not be rushed back, and he should instead be an option off the bench in case Coventry takes the lead.
