Sunderland will take on League Two outfit Bradford City in their upcoming pre-season friendly.
All eyes will be on how Regis Le Bris sets up his side against Bradford City at Valley Parade following the bold exclusions of some of Sunderland’s younger ranks, with Jay Matete, Jewison Bennette and Luis Hemir looking likely to move on from the Stadium of Light.
Le Bris has made it clear that he wishes to downsize his squad, which could mean that the likes of Timothee Pembele may have to impress the French boss, otherwise may face similar consequences to the other younger players who are set to be moved elsewhere.
Aside from potential exclusions, Le Bris will be hoping to further implement his style of play across Sunderland’s squad, and should be able to build on what was a fairly positive away performance against League One Blackpool.
Both Pierre Ekwah and Leo Hjelde are doubts for the clash, so here is how we think Le Bris will set up his Sunderland side against Bradford City.
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Sunderland predicted XI vs Bradford City
It will be likely that Anthony Patterson is given the nod to start in-between the sticks for Sunderland, although there will be no surprise if new signing Simon Moore enters the fray in the second half.
Le Bris is likely to go with a back-four with Trai Hume set to retain his place at right-back following a solid performance away at Bloomfield Road, which saw Sunderland keep a clean sheet.
Luke O’Nien will be looking to lead his side out as captain once again, likely playing alongside Aji Alese, however the French centre-back was cautiously brought off in the Blackpool game.
Dennis Cirkin looks set to slot in at left-back, completing an unchanged defence for Le Bris’ side.
After an inspired performance from off the bench against Blackpool, Sunderland star Chris Rigg will likely partner new signing Alan Browne in the centre-of-the-park.
Patrick Roberts slowly looks to be returning to his best following a tepid 2023/24 campaign and as a result will likely be given a start to continue that form.
Roberts will undoubtedly be partnered by Sunderland’s top scorer during pre-season Jack Clarke on the opposite wing.
Jobe Bellingham hasn’t quite lived up to his sky-high expectations that he set last season, however there will be no doubt that he will start for Sunderland.
Striker options are far from rife for Le Bris’ side, however Eliezer Mayenda has been chosen over the past couple games to lead the line following his stand-out performance against South Shields.