With the focus turned away from League One action, there’s a chance for youngsters and fringe players to stake their claim in the cup competitions.
And with that in mind, we’ve named our predicted team to line-up against the Stags on Saturday – with just two survivors from the win over Ipswich.
Scroll down and click through to see who we’re predicting to start:
1. Remi Matthews
All of the stopper's appearances for Sunderland so far have been limited to cup competitions, so it would be little surprise to see him given the nod between the sticks against the Stags. Photo: FRANK REID 2020
2. Dion Sanderson
The Wolves loanee looked solid on his debut at Rochdale but hasn't started a game since. This could prove an ideal opportunity to get some valuable minutes into him ahead of some key league fixtures - in which he is likely to be involved given international call-ups. Photo: Frank Reid
3. Bailey Wright
Sunderland's options at the heart of their back three are limited, so Wright may well be asked to play once more. You would expect he would be rested at Fleetwood, though. Photo: Frank Reid
4. Tom Flanagan
Flanagan is soon to depart on international duty so, in the interests of protecting those who may deputise for him during his absence, he may start once more on the left of the back three. Photo: Frank Reid