Debut for January signing: Sunderland’s expected lineup vs Middlesbrough but…
What Sunderland team might Michael Beale pick for the trip to Middlesbrough?
This weekend, Sunderland travels to Middlesbrough in an attempt to gain some momentum before the Championship run-in.
A victory would help Sunderland improve on their solid 3-1 victory over Stoke last week and return them to the play-off spots.
That won’t be simple, of course, especially considering Sunderland’s dismal recent performance at Middlesbrough.
What starting lineup would Michael Beale choose at the Riverside? This is the first time in a long that he has some viable choices to choose from. Let’s attempt to foresee it.
Predicted lineup for Sunderland vs. Middlesbrough: 4-3-3
GK: Anthony Patterson There is absolutely no need to think about switching goalkeepers, and even if there were, Patterson wouldn’t be far behind in the quality hierarchy.
RB: Trai Hume: Hume recently filled in at left-back and has performed well for the squad. But Beale has made it clear that she wants him to return to his natural position on the field.
CB: Luke O’Nien: It’s difficult to see Beale benching his most seasoned player, especially for what many believe to be a derby, given that Sunderland’s past two coaches rated O’Nien higher than Jenson Seelt.
CB: Dan Ballard: Until he receives a second yellow card, which will result in a two-match suspension, the Northern Irishman’s spot in the squad is secure.
Luke O’Nien, CB: Beale is unlikely to bench his most experienced player, especially for what many consider to be a derby, considering that O’Nien was ranked higher than Jenson Seelt by Sunderland’s previous two coaches.
CB: Dan Ballard: The Northern Irishman’s place in the team is assured unless he picks up a second yellow card, which will mean a two-match suspension.
CM: Pierre Ekwah: Looks much happier going forward and is on the scoring against Stoke.
Dan Neil, CM: seems to be the midfield player most suited for a deeper holding position, and he did a great job in it last week.
Jobe Bellingham, CM: This season has taught us one thing: Jobe Bellingham plays if he is healthy.
RW: Abdoullah Ba: Against Stoke, he put on an incredible display, creating two goals and scoring one. Although Patrick Roberts has returned, Ba should remain in his position.
Mason Burstow, CF: got off the ground last week and, at other times, exhibited genuine promise. should be approved to proceed.
LW: Jack Clarke: For Sunderland to leave the Riverside with any points, they’ll probably need another strong showing from their main man.
