Preview: Lads take on Utd in Papa John's

Sunderland take on Manchester United U21s at the Stadium of Light in their second Papa John’s Trophy game of the season (KO 7pm).

Lee Johnson will be looking to utilise the younger players once again after an impressive 2-1 victory over Lincoln City last week in the competition.

Team news

A similar blend of youth and experience is expected from Lee Johnson tomorrow night after last week’s success coinciding with the international break.

Will Harris, Ollie Younger, Harrison Sohna and Kenton Richardson all impressed in last week’s game, and will be hoping for more first-team action.

Denver Hume will be looking to build his match fitness up with some more game time, and Arbenit Xhemajli may not be far off some first team action after featuring in the Under-23’s victory against Leeds United at the weekend.

Opposition

Tomorrow’s game will be Manchester United Under-21s’ final Papa John’s Trophy game of the season with the side currently on three points after a victory over Bradford City and a 3-2 defeat against Lincoln.

The North West side may feature some familiar faces on Wearside, with former Black Cats youngsters Joe Hugill – who scored in their 3-0 win over Bradford - and Logan Pye both in their squad.

Former Black Cats defender Paul McShane may also feature, having signed for the Red Devils in the summer as a player-coach.

Around the grounds

Six Papa John’s Trophy games will feature over the next two days, with League One sides Plymouth and Portsmouth facing Swindon and Sutton respectively tonight.

Elsewhere, Forest Green Rovers take on Brighton Under-21, Newport play Arsenal Under-21, and Bristol Rovers face Chelsea Under-21 tomorrow evening.

Tickets and Streaming

Tickets for Wednesday’s game are still on sale and can be purchased by clicking here.

SAFSee streaming will be available to both UK and international-based supporters – streaming passes can be purchased here.

Social media coverage will as ever be provided by the club's official platforms on Twitter @SunderlandAFC, and Instagram @sunderlandafcofficial.

Back to top