Phil Parkinson has named a strong side for Sunderland’s Leasing.com Trophy tie against Leicester City Under-21s.
Jon McLaughlin retains his place following a 1-0 win over Southend United last time out, protected by a back four of Tom Flanagan, Alim Ozturk, Conor McLaughlin and Laurens De Bock.
Dylan McGeouch makes his first start under the Lads’ new manager, with Grant Leadbitter and Chris Maguire also included.
Sweden Under-21 international Benji Kimpioka features in a front three alongside Duncan Watmore and Marc McNulty.
Sunderland: J McLaughlin, Ozturk, Flanagan, C McLaughlin, De Bock, Leadbitter, McGeouch, Maguire, Watmore, Kimpioka, McNulty.
Substitutes: Patterson, Willis, Power, O’Nien, McGeady, Grigg, Hume.
