Sunderland dropped points for the first time at home last Saturday against Oxford United.
Sunderland begin their Checkatrade Trophy campaign on Tuesday evening against Stoke City Under-21’s, with the competition providing a chance for the Black Cats to get to Wembley Stadium next April.
Jack Ross will have an important selection decision to make in midweek, with emphasis placed on their League One campaign, but the 42-year-old will still likely want to keep their good run of form going.
The Black Cats have only been beaten once this season, in the Carabao Cup at home to Sheffield Wednesday, but remain unbeaten in the third tier.
Some of Sunderland’s fringe players, including Reece James, Ethan Robson and Luke O’Nien could all feature against Stoke’s youth side, whilst key players could also be rested.
Max Power was sent off against Oxford United last weekend and will be banned for three League One games, as well as Tuesday evening’s match, despite EFL rules suggesting the former Wigan man could feature.
Sunderland’s last trip to Wembley came in 2014, when Gustavo Poyet’s side reached the final of the League Cup against Manchester City and fans of the North East club will be keen for another trip south.
The game against the Potters is the second of the three consecutive home games at the Stadium of Light for Sunderland, with the Black Cats welcoming the in-form Fleetwood Town to Wearside on Saturday.
Below is how we think Sunderland will line-up on Tuesday evening, with seven changes to the side that drew 1-1 with Oxford United last weekend.
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