Régis Le Bris's Sunderland XI and bench to face Newcastle United predicted with huge injury calls to make | OneFootball

Sunderland visit St James’ Park to face Newcastle United on Sunday, one of their toughest tasks. With several injury concerns, the team announcement will be the most eagerly awaited of the season.

According to Sunderland Echo, the club have kept injury news under wraps, with Régis Le Bris due to offer an update in Friday’s press conference. That leaves any early XI and bench call a delicate exercise.

Goalkeeper: If Robin Roefs is available, Sunderland would be keen to restore him, yet it is unclear whether he has returned to training after a hamstring issue, so his inclusion remains in doubt. Given that, Melker Ellborg may get the nod, and he has deputised well in his first Premier League outings.

Right-back: The big call is whether to hasten Nordi Mukiele’s return from a calf issue. With Reinildo expected back, Trai Hume could switch across and looks ahead of Lutsharel Geertruida. If Mukiele is fit, Hume might instead be used higher up as at the turn of the year.

Centre-back: Dan Ballard is a major doubt after apparently suffering a hamstring problem against Brighton last week. If Sunderland can get him on the pitch they will, given his importance. Should he miss out, Luke O’Nien’s recent steady displays put him in line, with Geertruida another option.

Centre-back: Omar Alderete has rebounded from a brief dip around the turn of the year with excellent recent performances. Sunderland will need him to excel again if they are to get anything from this game.

Source: Sunderland Echo