Billy Jones has been named in the starting XI for Sunderland’s Checkatrade Trophy clash at Hartlepool United (KO 7.30pm).
Summer signing Mika starts making his debut for the Black Cats, with Donald Love also selected by Robbie Stockdale who will take charge of proceedings at Victoria Park.
Josh Maja starts up top in a 4-3-3 with Rees Grenwood and George Honeyman tasked with supplying the youngster.
The Black Cats opened their Checkatrade Trophy campaign last month drawing 1-1 at Rochdale after 90 minutes before losing on penalties, meaning they have one point heading into tonight’s game.
Sunderland: Mika, Jones, Bradey, Legder, T Robson, E Robson, Love, Beadling, Honeyman, Maja, Greenwood.
Subs: Stryjek, J Robson, Casey, Lawson, Pybus, Molyneux, Wright.