HE might be starting a two-game suspension, but Luke O’Nien will still be an integral part of Sunderland’s attempts to end a five-game losing run when they head to St Mary’s to take on Southampton this afternoon.

O’Nien picked up his tenth booking of the season in Tuesday’s 1-0 defeat to Leicester City, meaning he must sit out both today’s game with the Saints and next weekend’s home match with QPR.

The defender could have opted to spend some time with his family this weekend, in an attempt to recharge his batteries after an emotionally and physically-draining season.

Instead, he insisted he wanted to be part of the group that travelled the length of the country ahead of today’s game, and will be at St Mary’s supporting and encouraging his team-mates.

“Luke spoke to me and said he wanted to travel,” said Sunderland’s interim head coach, Mike Dodds. “He wants to be around the group which, for me as a coach, is something that I don't undervalue.

“I think it's really important that we have someone of his character round the group. He’s still fully committed, as we all are. They believe in what we're doing. I think if they didn't believe in what we're doing, you wouldn't get the level of commitment that they showed on Tuesday night.”

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In O’Nien’s absence, Dodds is likely to revert to a flat back four after switching shape to play with a five-man backline against Leicester.

Bradley Dack is back training with the first-team group, but is not yet ready for a competitive return, with Aji Alese in a similar situation. Jack Clarke and Patrick Roberts are not yet in a position where they are able to commence outdoor work.

“I believe in the players,” said Dodds. “I believe in the group. The team that was out the other night restricted Leicester to one shot at goal in the second half, none on target, and we completely dominated 45 minutes of football. So, they can do it, I've got full belief in them.”

Sunderland (4-2-3-1): Patterson; Hume, Seelt, Ballard, Hjelde; Neil, Ekwah; Ba, Bellingham, Mundle; Hemir.