Southampton have lost four on the bounce so the game against Leeds is must-win, here is how we think Russell Martin will line-up.
A terrible run of form for Southampton has seen four consecutive defeats, along with being dumped out of the League Cup by Gillingham back in August.
Defeats to Sunderland (5-0), Leicester (4-1), Ipswich Town (1-0) and Middlesbrough (2-1) has left Sunderland down in 15th just five points above the relegation places.
Already they find themselves 11 points behind the two front runners, a role they probably were hoping to be in themselves.
But now, in must win territory for Russell Martin with five consecutive loses likely to put his position in jeopardy, here is how we think he should line-up…
Southampton predicted XI v Leeds
So with the poor form and need to win this game, changes can be expected with Martin desperate for some results.
Despite this need for change, Gavin Bazunu should remain in goal as he continues to develop.
In defence, Ryan Manning and Kyle Walker-Peters should start in the full-back slots.
Manning would replace Mason Colgate at right-back due to his struggles.
In the middle, Jan Bednarek and Taylor Harwood-Bellis have shown they are the best option at Martin’s disposal.
In midfield we see Will Smallbone, Shea Charles and Joe Aribo making a three, with Flynn Downes dropping out on the team.
In attack, Ryan Fraser and Adam Armstrong should start on the wings, with Che Adams up front to complete the line-up.
Southampton predicted XI: Bazunu; Manning, Harwood-Bellis, Bednarek, Walker-Peters; Smallbone, Charles, Aribo; Fraser, Adams, Armstrong.