Régis Le Bris's Sunderland XI and bench to face Newcastle United predicted | OneFootball

Sunderland head to St James’ Park on Sunday for one of their sternest tests, with injuries clouding Régis Le Bris’s selection. Sunderland Echo notes that the line-up is the most eagerly awaited of the season, with an update due at Friday afternoon’s pre-match press conference.

In goal, Melker Ellborg keeps his place unless Robin Roefs is cleared after a hamstring issue. At this stage it is unclear whether Roefs has even returned to training, so his inclusion remains in doubt. Ellborg has deputised well and shown promise in his first Premier League appearances.

At right-back, Trai Hume is the safe call while a decision looms on Nordi Mukiele, who has a calf problem and could be pushed back into action slightly ahead of schedule. With Reinildo expected to be back, Hume could move across in Mukiele’s absence and is probably ahead of Geertruida on this season’s form. If Mukiele is fit, Hume’s place could be in doubt or he could operate slightly further forward as he did around the turn of the year.

Dan Ballard is a major doubt after what appeared to be a hamstring problem against Brighton a week ago. If Sunderland can get him on the pitch they will, he is a key player. If he does not make it, Luke O’Nien’s solid recent outings put him in contention, with Geertruida another option.

Omar Alderete has rebounded from a dip in form earlier in the year with some top-class performances in recent weeks. Sunderland need him to excel again if they are to get anything from this game.

Source: Sunderland Echo