JERMAIN DEFOE returns to Sunderland's starting line-up for this afternoon's Premier League game with Crystal Palace.

The former England international sat out the midweek EFL Cup win at QPR after sustaining a kick to his calf in last weekend's defeat at Spurs, but returns to take up the lone-striker role at the Stadium of Light this afternoon.

Having made six changes in midweek, Sunderland boss David Moyes has reverted to the side that lost in the league at White Hart Lane.

The only change to last Sunday's starting line-up is the return of Patrick van Aanholt, who was a late withdrawal against Tottenham.

Van Aanholt replaces Jason Denayer, who stepped up from the bench to replace him six days ago.

David Moyes has named Victor Anichebe in his matchday squad for the first time since the striker joined as a free agent at the start of the month.

Crystal Palace boss Alan Pardew is without Wilfried Zaha, with the winger unavailable after suffering a hamstring injury.

SUNDERLAND (4-3-3): Pickford; Manquillo, Kone, Djilobodji, van Aanholt; Ndong, Kirchhoff, Cattermole; Januzaj, Defoe, Pienaar.

Subs: Mika (gk), O'Shea, Denayer, McNair, Khazri, Anichebe, Watmore.

CRYSTAL PALACE (4-2-3-1): Mandanda; Ward, Delaney, Tomkins, Kelly; Ledley, McArthur; Puncheon, Cabaye, Townsend, C Benteke.

Subs: Hennessey (gk), Fryers, Lee, Mutch, Wynter, Sako, Wickham.