Sunderland Vs Reading: Confirmed Lineups

Martin O'Neill gave Sunderland fans a double boost ahead of kick off as Steven Fletcher returned to the starting lineup following a recent lay-off, and Phil Bardsley was benched after a dismal showing against Chelsea last time out.

Unfortunately this all means Connor Wickham is bumped from the lineup too, but things still look attacking. Jack Colback will take a fullback spot with Danny Rose moved into midfield, and is likely to be partnered by either Seb Larsson or Craig Gardner. Our money is on the latter.

Sunderland (4-4-1-1): Simon Mignolet; Seb Larsson, John O'Shea, Carlos Cuellar, Jack Colback; Adam Johnson, Craig Gardner, Danny Rose, James McClean; Stephane Sessegnon; Steven Fletcher

Substitutes: Keiren Westwood, Phil Bardsley, Titus Bramble, Fraizer Campbell, Matt Kilgallon, Connor Wickham, David Vaughan

Fellow struggling side Reading went with a familiar looking lineup, including in form striker and posh git, Adam Le Fondre in attack.

Fans favourite Alex Pearce also stars in central defence for the Royals as they look to climb above us and out of the relegation zone.

Reading (4-4-2): Adam Federici; Shaun Cummings, Adrian Mariappa, Nicky Shorey; Gareth McCleary, Jay Tabb, Mikel Leigertwood, Job McAnuff; Noel Hunt, Adam Le Fondre

Substitutes: Chris Gunter, Kaspar Gorkss, Ian Harte, Jordan Obita, Stuart Taylor, Brynyar Gunnarson, Dominic Samuel

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