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 assignments of the campaign, with team news set to be the most keenly awaited of the season.

According to Sunderland Echo, the club have kept injuries under wraps this week, with Régis Le Bris due to offer an update on Friday afternoon. The uncertainty makes any predicted XI and bench a delicate call.

In goal, Melker Ellborg keeps his place if Robin Roefs is not ready. Roefs’ hamstring issue means it is unclear if he has resumed training, so his inclusion remains in doubt. Ellborg has deputised well and shown promise in his first Premier League outings.

At right-back, the big decision is whether to accelerate Nordi Mukiele’s return from a calf problem. With Reinildo expected back, Trai Hume could shift across and is likely ahead of Geertruida on this season’s form. If Mukiele is fit, Hume’s place could be in doubt or he could move further forward, as at the turn of the year.

Dan Ballard is a major doubt after seemingly injuring his hamstring against Brighton a week ago. If Sunderland can get him on the pitch they will, he is a key figure. If not, Luke O’Nien is in line, with Geertruida another option.

Alongside him, Omar Alderete has rebounded from a mid-season dip with top-class performances in recent weeks. Sunderland need him to excel again if they are to take anything from the derby.

Source: Sunderland Echo