Sunderland had a tough transfer window to start with, and they had to let go of their top scorer Josh Maja to French outfit Bordeaux. The club had to go to great lengths to replace him, and they managed to pull off the signing of Will Grigg just in time.
The club also lost another forward in the form of Jerome Sinclair and to replace him; the manager managed to bring in Kazaiah Sterling on loan from Tottenham. The club would also be delighted to bring back its former academy product Grant Leadbitter to the Stadium of Light. Many might think the signing was done for sentimental reasons, but we still believe Leadbitter has enough in his locker to play in midfield for the Wearside outfit. Sunderland have had a knack of giving away the lead, and someone like Leadbitter is a top addition for seeing the game out and bringing a bit more of control in the middle of the park.
Here is how we feel they will line up when all their players are fit and available including the new signings.
Formation (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Jon McLaughlin isn’t a doubt to start in goal for the Black Cats. Tom Flanagan has established himself as the first choice centre back, and his place is confirmed in the heart of the defence. The other spot is up for grabs as Jimmy Dunne is a decent option but we feel summer signing Jack Baldwin has done well at the back more often than not.
Bryan Oviedo might be the more established name in world football but Reece James often looks hungrier of the two, and we are going in with him in the left back spot. However, there is very little to choose between them, and Oviedo can also be a decent bet. Luke O’ Nien has filled in well as a makeshift fullback, but Adam Mathews is likely going to be the better option to start as a right back.
Midfield
Max Power is a decent option to have in midfield, but we are going in with the experienced duo of Grant Leadbitter and Lee Cattermole. Both of them can do the nitty gritty job well in midfield and will bring much more control in the middle of the park.
George Honeyman’s time has been marred with injuries, and he would get in the starting eleven as an attacking midfielder when fit. In the wide regions, Lewis Morgan might have to showcase his worth first in cameo appearances as the likes of Aiden McGeady and Lynden Gooch have done well. The duo have directly played a part in 24 goals this season so we feel the Celtic loanee might have to wait for his opportunity.
Attack
Jack Ross managed to bring Will Grigg just in time before the window closed and the Northern Irish international would start as the man up top once he settles in at the club.
