Sunderland boss Jack Ross has often overlooked Jerome Sinclair and Bali Mumba in recent months.
Sinclair and Mumba have only been used as covering options at Sunderland in recent months, with their first-team chances limited.
The pair are currently behind other options in the selection order at the Stadium of Light, and Ross has admitted that the duo are wanting to play more often.
“It [the Checkatrade Trophy] is great for Bali because it has been frustrating for him,” Ross admitted.
“I think he’s a good player as he showed in the Checkatrade Trophy in the last round even playing out of position how effective he can be.
“He [Sinclair] is frustrated because he wants to play, but not frustrated in terms that he has kicked-off because he is a good boy.
“He’s also very honest and he knows that his consistency levels have been up and down.”
Sunderland are due to take on Newcastle United’s under-23’s later this evening, and Sinclair and Maja are both set to be given a chance to prove their worth.
Ross wants to take a look at some of his fringe players at Sunderland in what should be a very competitive match against their local rivals.
Sinclair actually started this season in Sunderland’s starting line-up, but he has found goals hard to come by.
Mumba, meanwhile, has been linked with a loan move away from the Stadium of Light, but whether that will materialise this month remains to be seen.
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