Sunderland are at the Stadium of Light once again on Wednesday, this time welcoming 23rd place Luton Town.
Just a couple of years ago, Luton Town beat Sunderland in the Championship play-off semi finals on their way to promotion to the Premier League.
Now, the story is much different. Luton are in 23rd place of the Championship table, fighting for survival under new boss Matt Bloomfield, whilst the Black Cats are in 4th under Regis Le Bris.
The Frenchman arrived in the summer and has changed the club’s fortunes massively. But there remains the odd complaint from fans, with the last outing against Watford being one.
Sunderland drew 2-2 with Watford as they once again threw away a lead. The Black Cats’ last two home games have been 2-2 draws against the Hornets and Plymouth Argyle, whilst Luton Town haven’t won in nine.
Sunderland team and injury news vs Luton Town
Speaking to the press on Tuesday, Le Bris revealed positive news on Jobe Bellingham’s injury after the teenager missed the Watford game with an ankle – he’s OK to play against Luton, said Le Bris.
Romaine Mundle and Tommy Watson are very close to a return to action with Mundle slightly closer, as Watson needs another week in full contact training.
Le Bris also says that Alan Browne is very close to a return to action whilst Jayden Danns remains injured following his deadline day loan move from Liverpool.
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Sunderland predicted lineup vs Luton Town
Dennis Cirkin has become a talking point in recent weeks. The left-back started the season very strong but his form of late has been a cause for concern.
Against Watford, Sunderland fans were critical of Cirkin who endured a pretty poor afternoon, although he was the one who salvaged the late point.
Le Bris may finally axe the left-back, but that would force a reshuffle with Aji Alese out for the season. Luke O’Nien could be the one to fill in on the left which would allow for Dan Ballard to partner Chris Mepham in the middle.
Another talking point is Eliezer Mayenda; moreover playing two strikers. Sunderland have chopped and changed between a lone striker and two strikers, and after the Watford game, it seems like a front two may suit the side more so.
Expect Mayenda to start alongside Isidor on Wednesday in what would be a 4-4-2 formation, with Enzo Le Fee keeping his spot in the left and Bellingham returning to the XI after his recent injury.
Wednesday night could see a very new-looking but exciting Sunderland XI, with some issues in the side to sort out. Here’s how we think Sunderland could line up against Luton Town…
Patterson (GK)
O’Nien
Ballard
Mepham
Hume
Le Fee
Neil
Bellingham
Rigg
Isidor
Mayenda