Alious
Sunderland are on the cusp of a Premier League return, with one final hurdle standing in their way — a play-off clash against Sheffield United at Wembley. Manager Régis Le Bris faces several tactical and personnel decisions ahead of Saturday’s showdown, with formation, fitness, and form all under scrutiny.
Le Bris must decide whether to retain the 4-4-2 system that proved effective in the semi-final win, or revert to a more midfield-dominant setup to counter Sheffield’s threats. Injury concerns loom large, particularly regarding key contributors like Romaine Mundle and Patrick Roberts, both of whom played through physical setbacks in the previous round.
Predicted Starting XI
**Goalkeeper – Anthony Patterson**
Patterson is a lock between the sticks, having delivered consistently throughout the campaign, including a clean sheet in the League One play-off final two seasons ago.
**Right Back – Trai Hume**
Named Sunderland’s Player of the Season, Hume’s dynamism and reliability make him undroppable.
**Centre Backs – Dan Ballard & Luke O’Nien**
Ballard returned from injury to shine in the semis, while O’Nien’s composure and leadership from deep continue to be indispensable.
**Left Back – Dennis Cirkin**
Cirkin showed resilience in playing 120 minutes in the semi-final and now looks match-fit following a full training week.
**Central Midfield – Dan Neil, Jobe Bellingham, Enzo Le Fée**
Neil, the captain, may drop deeper if Le Bris switches to a 4-3-3, allowing him to control the tempo. Bellingham is expected to start despite rumours of a move to Dortmund. Le Fée could start centrally if Mundle isn’t fully fit—despite limited minutes in that role, his impact in extra time against Coventry was undeniable.
**Right Wing – Patrick Roberts**
Should feature if cleared medically; his creativity will be key, especially with a weakened Mundle.
**Left Wing – Romaine Mundle**
A game-changer in the semi-final second leg, Mundle walks into the XI if fit. If there are doubts about his stamina, Le Bris may opt to unleash him as a second-half weapon.
**Centre Forward – Eliezer Mayenda**
Mayenda edges out Isidor due to superior hold-up play and recent form. However, Isidor’s speed remains an option late on.
Predicted Bench
Simon Moore (GK)** – Backup keeper with match experience earlier this season.
* **Wilson Isidor** – A dangerous impact sub if Le Bris opts for a lone striker system.
* **Chris Rigg** – Youngster with huge potential, impressed off the bench in the semis.
* **Chris Mepham** – Defensive cover likely to remain behind the starting CB pairing.
* **Alan Browne** – Veteran leadership could be vital in the closing stages.
* **Leo Hjelde** – Backup for Cirkin, also a potential penalty taker.
* **Salis Abdul Samed** – Out of form but experienced; included for midfield depth.
* **Tommy Watson** – A pacey attacker who could be used if Sunderland need to chase the game.
* **Harrison Jones** – Still in contention with Aji Alese’s fitness in question.
With the Premier League just one win away, every decision made by Le Bris could define Sunderland’s season. All eyes will be on Wembley this weekend as the Black Cats look to complete their journey back to the top flight.
Alious
