Sunderland team news: Ex-Leeds United player among five ruled out of Elland Road clash
Sunderland are set to be without five first-team players as they travel to Elland Road to take on Leeds United, as confirmed on the Black Cats’ official website.
Niall Huggins, who’s a product of the Leeds academy, is one of the first-team options to be missing as he continues rehabilitation after a long-term injury layoff.
Natural striker option, Nazariy Rusyn is to be missing from the starting XI due to missing out on full training through injury.
Elliot Embleton, Dennis Cirkin and Jenson Seelt are guaranteed to be out of the squad, like the two before them, are dealing with injury concerns.
The Black Cats welcomed back Aji Alese and Bradley Dack in their draw against Bristol City so they are likely to play a role at Elland Road.
Given that Leeds have concerns of their own, it is likely to be an interesting Championship clash.
How will Leeds United line up v Sunderland?
Given that Sunderland have many injury concerns and are without a recognised striker, an attacking lineup for Daniel Farke’s side may be preferred.
There are injuries for the promotion challenges to deal with as stalwart, Ethan Ampadu looks set to miss out due to an illness.
This could see him be replaced at centre half by either a youthful option in Charlie Cresswell or the experienced Liam Cooper.
There has also been discussion regarding the form of Patrick Bamford in recent weeks. After a goal last time out for Joel Piroe, he may be in line to start at Elland Road.
Mike Dodds’ side have kept three clean sheets in their last five but in the same breath have conceded a whopping nine [FotMob].
In a clash against fellow promotion chasers, Southampton, Sunderland lost 4-2 as the Saints clocked up over 20 shots throughout according to FotMob.
With injuries to their backline, there will be an opportunity for the Whites to get at them and create plenty of chances.
The form of stars like Crysencio Summerville and Dan James will pose a problem for the away side’s back line no doubt.
In other Leeds news, one first-team star’s future at Elland Road is “up in the air” amid transfer interest.
For more Leeds news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.