Sunderland host Leeds United in the Championship this evening in Mike Dodds’ second match in charge and here’s our predicted XI for the fixture.
The interim manager got off to the best start possible as they clinched a 2-1 victory over West Bromwich Albion and ended their three-match winless run before Tony Mowbray’s dismissal last week.
Dan Ballard and Dan Neil both registered their name on the scoresheet in that win to propel Sunderland back into the play-off places.
Their fixture against Leeds at the Stadium of Light, however, will be the biggest test they’ve faced in a while as the Whites are unbeaten in their last seven Championship matches.
Given they’ve just recorded a victory over the Baggies, few changes are expected ahead of this contest with Jobe Bellingham continuing in his role as striker.
Here is our predicted XI for this important Championship clash…
Sunderland predicted XI vs Leeds United
Dodds’ strongest lineup will no doubt feature Anthony Patterson, who has been a reliable presence in between the sticks this term.
At right-back, Niall Huggins played there in the victory over West Brom, switching sides with Trai Hume. Given how well that worked on Saturday, the interim coach won’t want to change a winning formula.
As mentioned, Hume will continue at left-back after impressing there last time out. His aggressive tackling and warrior-like performances have been a constant theme throughout this season.
In central defence, Dodds is unlikely to throw up any surprises with the instrumental Dan Ballard – who scored against West Brom – partnering Luke O’Nien in defence.
Pierre Ekwah is likely to start after holding down the fort relatively well on Saturday, winning three of his seven duels, as per Sofascore, and acting as a protective screen in front of O’Nien and Ballard.
After scoring a sumptuous lob, Neil will continue in his advanced midfield position, though he could partner with someone else against Leeds.
Adil Aouchiche wasn’t at his best against West Brom and could make way for midfield maestro, Alex Pritchard, who was described by his manager as “top-class” after grabbing two assists off the bench.
On the right flank, however, Patrick Roberts is immovable after looking close to his best on the weekend and his fleet-footed dribbling can pose a threat to the Whites.
Jack Clarke is arguably the first name on the team sheet after scoring ten goals this term and he’ll be looking to add to that tally against his former employers.
Up front, Dodds’ tactical masterstroke last time out saw him play Bellingham as a lone striker and it worked a treat. The 18-year-old can showcase his talent once more against tough opposition.
Sunderland predicted XI: Patterson, Huggins, Ballard, O’Nien, Hume; Ekwah, Pritchard, Neil; Roberts, Clarke, Bellingham