In the Championship, Sunderland is getting ready to take on Ipswich Town, but who will start for Michael Beale’s team at Portman Road?
Despite their recent 3-0 FA Cup loss to Newcastle, the Black Cats have picked up seven points from their last three Championship games under Beale.
Ipswich, who are ranked second in the league, defeated AFC Wimbledon 3-1 last weekend to advance to the FA Cup’s fourth round. However, they haven’t won in five league games.
Patterson kept his eighth clean sheet of the season during Sunderland’s 2-0 win over Preston on New Year’s Day.
Along with Jack Clarke, the 21-year-old is one of just two Sunderland players who have started every league game for the Black Cats this year. With Aji Alese’s injury recovery, Hume has been free to revert to his natural right-back position.
Ballard was performing well against Newcastle before his unfortunate own goal. The 23-year-old has still been a key player for the Black Cats this season.
O’Nien remains the team’s captain despite Corry Evans’s injury. Despite the loss, the 29-year-old gave a commendable defensive display against Newcastle.
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