Seelt to make first start of the season - Sunderland predicted XI v Millwall
Jenson Seelt is expected to make the starting lineup for Sunderland when they return to Championship action against Millwall on Saturday.
The international break came at a good time for Sunderland, given the lack of form they had shown prior.
A 3-0 defeat to Coventry typified the minor fall-off in recent weeks for the Black Cats, and all but ended any hopes of a top-two finish.
However, promotion remains on the cards for Regis Le Bris’ side, though a win against Millwall will be crucial to build momentum heading into the final run-in.
With that in mind, the Frenchman may be forced into making several changes from the defeat against the sky blues.
Sunderland set for defensive restructure
Anthony Patterson will play between the sticks, just as he has done all season, despite facing criticism for some of his performances for Sunderland.
Le Bris could be forced into two defensive changes, with Dennis Cirkin almost certainly set to miss out after he had to withdraw from the England Under-21 team.
| Championship (3rd-5th) | W | D | L | P |
| Burnley | 21 | 15 | 2 | 78 |
| Sunderland | 19 | 12 | 7 | 69 |
| Coventry | 17 | 8 | 13 | 59 |
Leo Hjelde is expected to take his place, with Chris Mepham starting in the heart of defence.
Luke O’Nien could be forced to move over to right back in the expected absence of Trai Hume, meaning Jenson Seelt could start for the first time this season.
The midfield is likely to consist of Dan Neil, Jobe Bellingham and Chris Rigg, the latter two currently away with the England youth teams.
Le Bris to stick with attacking lineup
In attack, Patrick Roberts is expected to keep his place on the right wing, with Romaine Mundle occupying the opposite flank.
Sunderland have somewhat of a selection headache when it comes to the striker position, with Wilson Isidor and Eliezer Mayenda both very shrewd options, though it is the Spaniard who is expected to lead the line yet again.
Mayenda was recently rewarded for his form with a call-up to the Spanish Under-21 team for the March international break, and will be looking to take plenty of momentum from his achievement.