Sunderland travel to Valley Parade for the first time since 2015 in League One this weekend.
Sunderland travel to Valley Parade this weekend in pursuit of three points as they take on David Hopkins’ Bradford City in an all-important clash for the away side.
Jack Ross’ men have now recorded back-to-back draws. The midweek 2-2 draw with Peterborough United was a frustrating one, meaning maximum points is a must this weekend to stay with the promotion-pack.
The Black Cats will welcome returning players Lee Cattermole and captain George Honeyman back to their line-up and Ross and his staff will have a tough decision to make on what team he starts with on Saturday afternoon.
Cattermole has been one of the key performers in the Sunderland side this season and since his manager’s arrival, the veteran midfielder has been influential in what is a pivotal season.
A recent suspension kept him out of the match with Peterborough earlier in the week, but the man who has bagged three impressive goals this term will no doubt return.
Skipper George Honeyman will also be available, but his place in the starting XI certainly isn’t nailed on, especially with fan speculation surrounding his position as Sunderland captain.
The usually reliable Bryan Oviedo was sent off for a ridiculous kick-out on a Peterborough player on Tuesday night and the Costa Rican will now be side-lined for three matches.
It will be down to summer arrival Reece James to step in, with youngster Denver Hume currently nursing a knee problem after limping off in a 1-1 draw with Coventry City last weekend.
Below is how we predict 42-year-old Ross will set his side up on Saturday, with three changes to the side that drew 2-2 in midweek.
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