Régis Le Bris's Sunderland XI and bench to face Newcastle United predicted | OneFootball

Sunderland visit St James’ Park on Sunday for one of their sternest tests, with the team reveal set to be the most anticipated of the season amid widespread fitness doubts.

The club have kept injury details under wraps, with Régis Le Bris due to provide an update on Friday. Sunderland Echo notes that this makes any XI prediction tentative, so here is how it might shape up.

Goalkeeper: If Robin Roefs is available, Sunderland would be keen to restore him, but it is unclear whether he has returned to training after a hamstring issue so he remains a doubt. Melker Ellborg has deputised well and shown promise in his first Premier League outings.

Right-back: The key call is whether to bring Nordi Mukiele back from a calf problem slightly ahead of schedule. With Reinildo expected to return, Trai Hume could move across if Mukiele misses out 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 shift slightly further forward.

Centre-back: Dan Ballard is a major doubt after appearing to sustain a hamstring issue against Brighton last week. If he cannot start, Luke O’Nien’s recent steady displays put him in contention, with Geertruida another option. If Sunderland can get Ballard on the pitch they will, given his importance.

Centre-back: Omar Alderete has bounced back from an early-year dip with strong recent performances, and Sunderland need him to excel again if they are to take anything from this game.

Source: Sunderland Echo