van Aanholt had a very good first season at the Stadium of Light, but this season saying he’s struggled would be an understatement. After a solid debut during the 4-1 defeat to Manchester City in the cup this weekend, DeAndre Yedlin has put pressure on van Aanholt’s position in the starting eleven. The left back gifted Manchester City the lead on Tuesday, by swinging a leg at Jesus Navas and giving Aguero the chance to score from the penalty spot inside 10 minutes.
Typically a right back, Yedlin may make the switch over to the left back position, with Billy Jones keeping his place at right back according to Advocaat. After a shaky start to the season, Jones has improved in the last two games against Spurs and Bournemouth.
Yedlin definitely did well, to be fair to him. I gave him the chance and he did well. He was not a regular with his team, but he showed his commitment which was good.But I cannot take Jones out because in the previous two games, he was the best player. Now our left-back also has a bit of competition. We can always put one player to the left side, which is a good option.
Yedlin’s probably inclusion will be just one of a few changes, with Pantilimon returning in goal and Lee Cattermole’s potential start alongside Yann M’Vila. Cattermole is another player who has struggled this season, by giving away 3 goals this season, including 2 ridiculous challenges giving away penalties. However, when introduced at half-time, the Teesider produced a good display.
Advocaat has struggled to find a partner for Yann M’Vila with all other central midfielders struggling to find any form. Hopefully, Cattermole can get back to his stunning form from last season, and help The Black Cats stabilise their side and pick up their first win of the season.
