Vanat leads the line, new midfield addition – Sunderland possible XI v West Ham
Sunderland’s starting 11 could have a very different feel to it once the Premier League season arrives.
Just under two months remain until Sunderland face off against West Ham United in their first Premier League encounter since relegation in 2016, though there is plenty of work to be done before then.
Recruitment at the Stadium of Light is going to be crucial to their hopes of surviving in the top flight, with a whole host of players linked with a move.
Mackem News takes a look at how the Black Cats could line up for the new campaign, with three new additions to their starting 11.
Sunderland need reinforcements this summer
The Black Cats will undoubtedly be looking to strengthen all over their squad for the new season, with several additions expected before the Premier League campaign gets underway.
As for the season opener against the Irons, Anthony Patterson is likely to start between the sticks, with one new addition in front of him.
Wilfried Singo has been mooted as a potential target, and he would be a remarkable addition for the Wearsiders, potentially partnering Dan Ballard in the heart of defence.
Trai Hume and Dennis Cirkin both had excellent campaigns in the Championship, and while full-back additions will be needed, the likelihood is that both will retain their places in the starting 11.
Dan Neil captained his boyhood club to promotion and will almost certainly be given the chance to represent them in the Premier League, with Enzo Le Fee one of his two expected midfield partners.
As for the other, Habib Diarra has emerged as a target for the Mackems as a potential replacement for Jobe Bellingham.
Eliezer Mayenda to star out wide for Sunderland
Romaine Mundle had an injury-hit season last time out, but will be keen to make a name for himself in the Premier League, with play-off final hero Eliezer Mayenda in a similar boat.
His second half of the season was magnificent, though he could find himself occupying the right flank to make way for Vladyslav Vanat, who has been linked with a move to Sunderland.
| Kiev | Games | Goals | Assists |
| Vanat | 28 | 17 | 4 |
Regis Le Bris will be hoping for more than just the three summer signings, though several of them may come after the season has started.
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