Sunderland played out yet another draw this weekend as they were held by Accrington Stanley. They found themselves two goals down and rallied back to secure their 14th draw of the season which is the most of any League One side. The game was a great advocate for League One football as both the teams had a fair go at each other. However, Jack Ross would know that a point wasn’t enough as they are losing the race to get in the automatic promotion spots.
Next, they take on Gillingham in the midweek clash at the Stadium of Light and fans would hope that their side can come up with all three points to get them out of their recent drop in form. On the table, Gillingham are 17th, but such is the nature of the League One that nothing can be taken for granted.
Team News: Lee Cattermole should be available for selection after he started on the bench in the last game. Duncan Watmore could be rested given his injury track record. Donald Love continues to be a long term absentee. Bryan Oviedo has started doing some light training after his injury.
Sunderland Predicted Lineup Vs Gillingham
Formation (4-2-3-1)
Jack Ross tried the formula of 4-4-2 in the last game, but the Black Cats struggled to find any rhythm. They looked a much better side when they switched to 4-2-3-1 and we expect Ross to go for this formation from the start.
Defence
Jon McLaughlin has put in some inspired performance in goal and he should start once again in between the sticks. Jimmy Dunne has done well at the back, and he should be trusted to play in defence. We would like to see Tom Flanagan partner him in the centre back role.
Reece James is a nailed on starter in the left back role. Adam Matthews should be preferred over Luke O’Nien in the right back position.
Midfield
Max Power should come back into the starting eleven as his energy in the middle could make the difference. The fact is that the games are coming thick and fast, and it is vital for Ross to choose a fresh midfield. Therefore we expect Leadbitter to be rested and Lee Cattermole might get a start ahead of him.
George Honeyman has looked influential in the final third, and he is expected to start in the no. 10 role. Chris Maguire has looked bright in cameos, and we believe it is time for the manager to give him a start. He should operate from the right flank. Lynden Gooch could be shifted to the left.
Attack
Will Grigg has missed some golden opportunities in the last few games and Ross would hope that he can be a bit more clinical in front of goal. The Northern Irishman should lead the line.
