Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris will be keeping tabs on two Cardiff City men ahead of this weekend’s clash.
Sunderland will welcome Cardiff City to the Stadium of Light today, as Regis Le Bris’ side hope to notch a second successive league victory.
Last time out, Sunderland recorded a win away at Sheffield Wednesday, with Eliezer Mayenda’s goals proving to be the difference.
The Black Cats are likely to line up with a side similar to the one that beat the Owls at Hillsborough Stadium, with Le Bris making it clear he wishes to use just one striker, meaning that Wilson Isidor could spend another game starting as a substitute.
Aside from Sunderland’s options, Le Bris will have examined two key areas in Cardiff’s side, one which could be an area for concern, and another that the Black Cats should be looking to exploit.
Sunderland should look to exploit Cardiff City defender Joel Bagan
Cardiff City currently find themselves precariously sat 21st in the Championship table, only five points ahead of Luton Town in the relegation spots.
They have had issues defensively this campaign, conceding 57 goals so far, the 2nd most in the Championship, therefore this is an area that Le Bris should be exploiting.
In particular, Cardiff City defender Joel Bagan should be targeted. He will either be utilised in his more familiar role at left-back, which would mean that Patrick Roberts would likely face off against him, or he could be shoehorned in at centre-back, which could lead to a field day for Mayenda.
Having helped his side to just one clean sheet, on top of recording just 0.5 interceptions and 1.1 tackles per game, it is clear that he isn’t the most consistent defensively. He has also received a red card this season.
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Regis Le Bris must be wary of Cian Ashford threat
Cardiff City’s threat lies in their attack, as seen by the fact that recently they ended Burnley’s incredible record of 12 games without conceding.
The man in that narrow defeat to Burnley that excelled was Cian Ashford, who, per Wales Online, put in a ‘top’ showing that was worthy of praise against the high-flying Championship side.
Ashford has only bagged two goals this season, but has been in fine form recently, notably playing a crucial role in the home win against Hull City.
Le Bris will most likely look to have Dan Neil close Ashford down to ensure he has minimal time on the ball, with passing being his undisputed strength, having notched three assists this season.