The Black Cats won 1-0 at Huddersfield on Wednesday and moved up to 12th in the table after 18 matches.
Sunderland are still missing several first-team players, but will have Jack Clarke available again after the winger served his one-match suspension.
Ellis Simms may also be ready to make his first start following his return from an injury, after playing 45 minutes at Huddersfield.
Here’s our predicted Sunderland XI to face Cardiff:
1. GK: Anthony Patterson
Kept his sixth clean sheet of the season against Huddersfield and made a crucial save when the game was still goalless. Photo: Martin Swinney
2. RB: Luke O’Nien
Has performed well at right-back in the last two matches following Bailey Wright’s return to the side in central defence. Photo: Frank Reid
3. CB: Bailey Wright
Racked up his 100th Sunderland appearance at Luton and has brought some more aerial presence to the side’s backline. Photo: Frank Reid
4. CB: Danny Batth
Won several important headers at Huddersfield to help his side keep a clean sheet. Photo: Frank Reid