Sunderland vs Leeds United – Predicted lineup and team news

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The Football Faithful

·28 December 2025

Sunderland vs Leeds United – Predicted lineup and team news

Sunderland welcome Leeds United to the Stadium of Light on Sunday, knowing they face a mammoth task to protect their unbeaten home record.

Currently, Régis Le Bris’ side have proved remarkably resilient this season. However, a massive wave of international call-ups stripped them of several first-team players. Despite the challenges, the Black Cats remain sixth in the table. Therefore, Le Bris hopes the defensive solidity that defined their home campaign can overcome a Leeds side that scores for fun in recent weeks.

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Sunderland Team News

Unfortunately, Régis Le Bris must navigate a defensive and midfield crisis due to the Africa Cup of Nations. Specifically, key players including Reinildo Mandava, Arthur Masuaku, Noah Sadiki, Chemsdine Talbi, and Bertrand Traoré travelled away on international duty and remain unavailable. Consequently, this leaves the manager with limited options, particularly on the left side of the pitch and in the defensive pivot roles.

In their absence, Lutsharel Geertruida expects to continue in a holding midfield role alongside Granit Xhaka. Crucially, Simon Adingra remains with the club after he missed out on the Ivory Coast squad, so he will provide a vital creative outlet in the attacking third. Finally, Daniel Ballard and Omar Alderete will lead the defence as they attempt to stop the league’s most in-form striker, Dominic Calvert-Lewin.