Sunderland travel to Southampton looking to progress into the final 8 in the EFL cup.
Sunderland manager David Moyes admits a run in the EFL Cup could help the Premier League’s bottom club find form from a win at Southampton.
“I want to get through in the cup, I really do, but if possible I’d like to probably leave out John O’Shea, Jermain Defoe and Steven Pienaar,” said Moyes.
Sunderland reached the final of the League Cup in 2014 then managed four wins in their final six matches of the season to retain their Premier League status.
Asked whether he thinks a similar run in the competition will kick-start the another similar league form, Moyes replied: “Yes, I think it can.”
“But our league position means that I do have to be careful with some of the players, and especially while we haven’t got a lot to select from.”
Full-back Patrick van Aanholt and midfielder Jack Rodwell are expected to be absent with minor injuries.
Sunderland host Arsenal in Saturday’s early kick-off while Southampton have an extra 24 hours to recover as they entertain Chelsea on Sunday.
