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Sunderland’s Max Power should start against Wycombe Wanderers

Ian Horrocks/Sunderland AFC via Getty Images
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Max Power captained his Sunderland side against Morecambe in midweek.

Max Power of Sunderland during the Checkatrade Trophy match between Morecambe and Sunderland at Globe Arena on November 13, 2018 in Morecambe, England.

Sunderland return to the Stadium of Light for a League One match against Wycombe Wanderers this weekend in their first ever meeting against Gareth Ainsworth’s team.

The Black Cats recently played back-to-back domestic cup matches against Port Vale and Morecambe, both of which were won – extending their winning run to eight matches in all competitions.

Jack Ross fielded a young side in preparation for Sunderland’s return to third-tier action on Saturday and changes are expected to be made – but one player that has earned his spot against Wycombe is Max Power.

The summer arrival was terrific in his first few matches only a few days after joining the former Premier League regulars, but his progress was put on hold after two ridiculous red cards against Oxford United and Bradford City.

His spot which looked secure in Ross’s side prior to being sent off was then filled by another summer arrival Dylan McGeouch and the Scot has played in that position ever since.

But after captaining Sunderland in their win against Morecambe in the EFL Trophy on Tuesday, as well as looking good against Port Vale also – Power has earned his spot ahead of McGeouch for this weekend.

Max Power of Sunderland celebrates at the full time whistle during the Sky Bet League One match between Gillingham and Sunderland at Priestfield Stadium on August 22, 2018 in Gillingham,...

The former Wigan Athletic midfielder’s inclusion this weekend would certainly be a good move by his Scottish manager and alongside Lee Cattermole, as the pair could rekindle their excellent partnership from earlier in the campaign.

Dropping McGeouch could be harsh, especially after the Scot has looked to have progressed in recent matches and therefore Ross may want to look at a potential midfield three – but regardless, the Birkenhead-born player has to be a starter this weekend.

Sunderland manager Jack Ross during  before the Sky Bet League One match between Doncaster Rovers and Sunderland at Keepmoat Stadium on October 23, 2018 in Doncaster, United Kingdom.