Sunderland lineup vs. Bournemouth: Predicted XI for Premier League clash as Granit Xhaka poised to star for injury-stricken Black Cats

Regis Le Bris faces a critical decision regarding his captain Granit Xhaka, who could return to the Sunderland starting lineup this weekend after being restricted to a second-half cameo against Fulham.

The Black Cats are sweating over the fitness of star striker Brian Brobbey, whose potential absence would be a monumental blow given he has netted a third of the club's meagre away goals this term.

Compounding Le Bris's selection headaches are fresh concerns for Nordi Mukiele and Jocelin Ta Bi, while the defensive trio of Romaine Mundle, Dennis Cirkin and Reinildo Mandava are already expected to miss out.

Should the injury crisis deepen, Jasper Roefs will likely be shielded by a back four featuring Lutsharel Geertruida, Dan Ballard, Omar Alderete and Trai Hume.

In the Black Cats midfield, Xhaka is poised to partner Noah Sadiki to provide a veteran presence behind the creative trio of Chemsdine Talbi, Enzo Le Fee and Oscar Angulo.

If Brobbey fails to shake off his knock in time for the trip to the South Coast, Wilson Isidor is the most probable candidate to lead the line as the visitors hunt for a rare victory on the road.

Sunderland possible starting lineup: 

Roefs; Geertruida, Ballard, Alderete, Hume; Sadiki, Xhaka; Talbi, Le Fee, Angulo; Isidor

> Click here to see how Bournemouth could line up for this game