The Sunderland dilemmas facing Alex Neil today ahead of Charlton clash

League One promotion challengers Sunderland will be desperate to build on a stunning away victory against Wigan Athletic this weekend as they face Charlton Athletic in the English capital.

They came into last weekend’s match at the DW Stadium as firm underdogs following a poor run of form – but took the lead in the second minute through Bailey Wright and didn’t look back after that with a Ross Stewart brace making the scoreline more emphatic against a side that will be expected to win automatic promotion at the end of this term.

The scenario couldn’t be much more different this weekend with Charlton failing to pick up a single point from a possible 15 in their last five league matches, a real disappointment for a side that were on course to be challenging for a play-off spot before their form dropped off.

The atmosphere at The Valley will only worsen if the Addicks suffer another defeat today – and the onus is on the Black Cats to make a fast start and ensure the home crowd are on their side’s back from the early stages of the game.

Not everything will be plain sailing though as the Wearside outfit have learnt in the third tier in recent years, especially for manager Alex Neil who will have a couple of dilemmas to deal with prior to this afternoon’s kick-off.

We select just two of those as his side aim to record consecutive league wins.

Doyle or Xhemajli?

Callum Doyle had last weekend to recuperate after establishing himself as one of the first names on the teamsheet at the Stadium of Light, something he should be commended for considering he’s just 18.

The teenager is destined for a big future based on his current development – but it was clear he needed a rest in recent weeks and he was finally given that respite by