View: Mayenda returns in five changes – Sunderland predicted line-up v Millwall
Regis Le Bris could be forced into making as many as five changes to his Sunderland side when they travel to face Millwall on Saturday.
Trai Hume and Patrick Roberts join the suspended Jobe Bellingham in missing the encounter at The Den. on 23 November.
Alan Browne and Romaine Mundle were taken off with injuries against Coventry and while no update has been provided, the duo seem likely to be out of contention.
Regis Le Bris forced to adapt at Sunderland
The Frenchman finds himself in the most testing period since his summer arrival on Wearside. With a winless run extended to three against Coventry, small signs of discontent will emerge if the trend continues against Milwall.
However, if Sunderland are to end it, they will have to do so without almost half of their usual starting 11.
Anthony Patterson is likely to be one change, with the Arsenal-linked shot-stopper set to return from injury which has ruled him out of action since the Luton victory.
Simon Moore has impressed in his absence although Le Bris will likely opt for Patterson against Millwall.
With Trai Hume suspended and no natural full-backs fit to replace him, Sunderland will be forced into re-shuffling the defence.
Luke O’Nien is expected to move over to right back, with Dan Ballard partnering Chris Mepham in defence.
Slight concerns were voiced by supporters over Ballard’s return so soon after injury although his recent performance for Northern Ireland will ease those concerns.
With three midfielders out for the game, Le Bris’ most challenging decision arrived in Browne’s replacement. Milan Aleksic seems to be the one that makes the most sense although, with the Serb yet to feature due to a language barrier, the Black Ctas could look elsewhere.
Adil Aouchcihe, a forgotten man at Sunderland, was absent from the Under-21 side that beat Tamworth 5-1 and it may be a sign that he is set to feature in some capacity at The Den.
Chris Rigg and Dan Neil are almost naive on starters due to the lack of availability in the midfield area.
With Mundle a doubt and Roberts suspended Le Bris will be forced to make changes to his attacking lineup.
Aaron Connolly has occasionally featured but Tommy Watson is expected to replace Mundle on the left while a return to the starting 11 for Eliezer Mayenda could be on the cards.
Typically operating as a striker, Mayenda’s pace and trickery could make him an excellent candidate to replace Roberts on the right flank.
Wilson Isidor has been in excellent form and will retain his place in the front line.
In other Sunderland news, Ian Darke backs Chris Rigg for a Premier League future.
For more Sunderland news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.