Assessing Sunderland’s strongest XI after January window, with Habib Diarra and Nilson Angulo decisions

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·4 February 2026

Sunderland are dealing with welcome selection dilemmas as they shape their strongest XI following the close of the January window.

As reported by Sunderland Echo, this assessment outlines the first-choice side and the key calls to be made.

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Among those decisions are how Habib Diarra and Nilson Angulo feature in the preferred line-up.

The discussion centres on combinations, balance and clarity over roles across the pitch.

In essence, these are pleasant problems for Wearside to have.

Source: Sunderland Echo