With Sunderland suffering from some defensive injuries, Tyias Browning could well return against Cardiff.
Sunderland have ended their losing run in the Championship, but there is still a lot of work to do before they can look to mount a play-off push.
Even the draw against Hull City last weekend was followed by yet another defeat, losing 3-0 at Everton in the EFL Cup.
Simon Grayson opted to use first team players for that game while still resting a number of stars, leading to a wonky line-up at Goodison Park.
But Saturday’s meeting with Cardiff City should see a return to a more familiar side, which means Robbin Ruiter regaining his place in goal.
Adam Matthews looks to be edging out Billy Jones at right-back, but injuries in the middle to Marc Wilson and John O’Shea – confirmed by Grayson, per the Chronicle (September 22, 14.39) – should see Tyias Browning lining up alongside Lamine Kone and Bryan Oviedo.
Further forward, fringe men Darron Gibson and Jack Rodwell have shown little to suggest they deserve an opportunity ahead of Didier Ndong and Lee Cattermole – even if the latter is not currently hitting top form.
The front four, like the midfield, will surely remain unchanged from the stalemate on Humberside, with Aiden McGeady and Lewis Grabban yet to return to the fold.
How Sunderland could line up against Cardiff:
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
