Sunderland return to Europe against AZ Alkmaar: probable line-ups

Sunderland AFC return to European competition on Wednesday when they host AZ Alkmaar in their opening Europa League fixture at the Stadium of Light, with kick-off at 19:00 GMT.

Sunderland are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Robin Roefs in goal. Trai Hume, Luke O’Nien, Omar Alderete and Reinildo Mandava are set to form the defence.

Granit Xhaka and Chris Rigg are likely to operate in midfield, while Thomas Meunier, Enzo Le Fee and Malick Fofana are expected to support Wilson Isidor in attack.

Sunderland AFC probable line-up: Robin Roefs; Trai Hume, Luke O’Nien, Omar Alderete, Reinildo Mandava; Granit Xhaka, Chris Rigg; Thomas Meunier, Enzo Le Fee, Malick Fofana; Wilson Isidor.

AZ Alkmaar are also expected to use a 4-2-3-1 system. Jari De Busser could start behind Seiya Maikuma, Wouter Goes, Lewis Schouten and Mateo Chavez.

Jordy Clasie and Peer Koopmeiners are set to form the central midfield pairing, with Calvin Stengs, Dave Kwakman and Ro-Zangelo Daal playing behind Mexx Meerdink.

AZ Alkmaar probable line-up: Jari De Busser; Seiya Maikuma, Wouter Goes, Lewis Schouten, Mateo Chavez; Jordy Clasie, Peer Koopmeiners; Calvin Stengs, Dave Kwakman, Ro-Zangelo Daal; Mexx Meerdink.

Sunderland will be without Habib Diarra, who has a thigh injury, and Romaine Mundle, who is recovering from a knee injury.

The confirmed line-ups will be announced before kick-off.