FeaturedSAFC

Sunderland v Carlisle United preview

Sunderland fans at Wembley during the Football League Trophy final in 2019

Sunderland welcome Carlisle United to the Stadium of Light (7pm ko) in the Football League Trophy. 

The Black Cats are undefeated so far this season, and drew on Saturday away at Charlton Athletic 0-0. 

Carlisle, on the other hand, picked up three precious points at the weekend, as they defeated Barrow 1-0 at Brunton Park.

These two sides last met in this competition in 2018, with Sunderland coming out 3-1 winners thanks to goals from Benji Kimpioka, George Honeyman and Ethan Robson.

Sunderland won their first Football League Trophy game 8-1 against Aston Villa, while the Cumbrians lost 3-1 against Fleetwood Town.

Ahead of the game, Sunderland are expected to make potentially 11 changes as manager Phil Parkinson experiments with his squad.

It is likely that George Dobson will return to the side after suspension, while Will Grigg could be given a start after impressing during his substitute cameo on Saturday.

Other changes could see Remi Matthews replace Lee Burge in goal. Brandon Taylor, Kimpioka, Dan Neil and Jack Diamond are all likely to play to help with their progression as young first team players. 

Carlisle are likely to play a strong-ish side, as they need to win to have any chance of qualifying after they lost their first game in the competition. 

Boss Chris Beech is likely to give starts to Danny Devine, Joe Riley and Gavin Reilly who have yet to perform to expected levels so far this season.

Fans can watch the game on SAFC.com for £10.