Cole flew out to Thailand to join his new team-mates after his deal to bring him north from Fulham had been agreed earlier this week, and he will play in a two-man frontline alomgside Karl Bermingham
Sun Jihai makes his first start after his long absence injury lay-off, having impressed in his substitute appearance against Bolton on Wednesday.
In midfield, the versatile Micah Richards partners Willo Flood. Richards has played in the middle for most of his career at junior level, although he has moved to centre-back for the reserves, and Flood will look to make the most of a rare chance in the middle of the park.
Kick off is at 11.45am UK time, coverage is on Sky Sports 1.
Starting XI
James
Jihai Sun
Sommeil
Distin
Thatcher
Sinclair
Richards
Flood
Musampa
Bermingham
Cole
