Régis Le Bris's predicted Sunderland XI and bench to face Nottingham Forest | OneFootball

Sunderland return to Premier League action against Nottingham Forest at the Stadium of Light tonight, with Régis Le Bris weighing up key selection calls as his side look to bolster hopes of a top-half finish and potential European place.

According to Sunderland Echo, the Black Cats are likely to have the same squad available as at Aston Villa last Sunday, though Le Bris has strong options on the bench should he opt to reshuffle.

In goal, Robin Roefs is tipped to continue after a superb campaign and is expected to play a major part again.

At right-back, Nordi Mukiele has been restored in recent weeks and, viewed by Le Bris as central to Sunderland’s attacking threat at home, seems certain to keep his place.

Dan Ballard is in line to return at centre-back. Sunderland were cautious with him last week, but after minutes at Villa Park and a further week of full training, it would be a major surprise if he did not start.

Omar Alderete, outstanding in recent weeks and integral in and out of possession, is also expected to feature. He was withdrawn in the second half at Villa due to illness, with five or six players affected, but should be fit to start.

Source: Sunderland Echo