Regis Le Bris makes cruel decision in one change – Sunderland predicted XI vs Crystal Palace
Sunderland return to Premier League action against Crystal Palace on Saturday after a long international break.
The Black Cats picked up a win against Brentford to make it two wins from three before the two-week interruption.
Sunderland can make it four straight wins at Selhurst Park if they can pull off an upset in South East London.
Given that the Black Cats tasted success against the Bees, Le Bris is expected to make minimal changes to his team.
Wilson Isidor earns first Premier League start vs Crystal Palace
Robin Roefs shone in Sunderland’s pre-season, and he has continued to do so in the top flight.
The goalkeeper received his first call-up to the Netherlands’ national team and will continue between the sticks against the Eagles.
Trai Hume captained Northern Ireland in their World Cup qualifiers and should keep his place in defence, alongside Omar Alderete, Nordi Mukiele, and Reinildo.
Ahead of them, Granit Xhaka, Habib Diarra, and Noah Sadiki are expected to make up a midfield three.
While Le Bris could mix up the wings, Enzo Le Fee is surely undroppable on the left after his performance against Brentford.
Chemsdine Talbi should continue to play on the right, while the big decision comes up front, with Isidor fancied ahead of Eliezer Mayenda.
Read more: Regis Le Bris could hand out rare Sunderland start vs Crystal Palace to player who’s been ‘a gift’
Why Wilson Isidor could get rare Sunderland start ahead of Eliezer Mayenda
In the first three games of the Premier League campaign, Le Bris has opted to field Mayenda as a sole striker.
The Spaniard bagged a fine headed goal in the season opener against West Ham, but has since struggled to make an impact.
Moreover, the 20-year-old has played twice for the Spain under-21s, meaning he will not be as fresh as Isidor or Brian Brobbey.
As for Isidor, he has made an impact from the bench in both the Wearsiders’ home games, scoring two late goals.
- Isidor has two goals despite an xG of 0.28
- He averages a goal every 33 minutes in the league
- His goal conversion rate is 50 per cent
Both of his efforts were trademark finishes for the Frenchman and were reminiscent of those he bagged in the Championship.
While Mayenda has been away, the 25-year-old has been training in the North East and has thus had extra time to work with his teammates and coaches.
Indeed, his ability to run in behind and finish clinically should be enough to earn him his first Premier League start.
Although Mayenda would feel hard done by, it is a long season, and all strikers will be given opportunities.
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