Sunderland goalkeeper Vito Mannone will make a return to the first team for Wednesday’s clash with Swansea City, despite the great debut performance from youngster Jordan Pickford at the weekend.
Good start
Pickford made his bout for the Black Cats after being recalled from Preston North End on Saturday when they faced holders Arsenal in the third round of the FA Cup.
The youngster impressed but could nothing to prevent them crashing out of the competition, the team suffering a 3-1 defeat.
Jeremain Lens gave the visitors a shock lead, but goals from Joel Campbell, Aaron Ramsey and Oliver Giroud were enough to put them through to the fourth round.
Sam Allardyce was quick to heap praise upon the youngster after the game, who has been at the club since the age of eight.
He told the Sunderland Echo that Pickford “looks the part” and that “he has a very bright future”. The boss added that fans show warmth to a “local boy” and that the length of his involvement with the club is a “rarity”.
Play it safe
However, despite catching the eye at the Emirates, Pickford will have to wait for his chance in the league, with Mannone expected to come straight back in at the Liberty Stadium having impressed since taking over from Costel Pantilimon.
When asked if Pickford would be playing any part against Swansea City, Allardyce said that the Italian “will play at Swansea” as he has done “really well” since stepping for Pantilimon and was a “big part” of their 3-1 victory over Aston Villa.
He didn’t rule out Pickford making his league debut at some point though, saying that he was “really pleased” with his performance and that it will keep both Pantilimon and Mannone “on their toes”.
Sunderland will take on Swansea City at the Liberty Stadium on Wednesday 13 January, with kick-off at 7:45PM BST.