Sunderland lead the Championship table ahead of the visit of Oxford United on Saturday afternoon.
Sunderland return to Championship play on Saturday, looking to complete a flawless week against Oxford United at the Stadium of Light. Wins on the road against Hull City and Luton Town have sealed their place at the top of the table, but they will be well aware that they cannot afford to ignore Oxford United, who have had a strong start to the season after being promoted through the League One play-offs.
Here’s all the team and injury news we have right now, with serious concerns for both managers…
1. Dan Ballard – out
Ballard has been dealing with an ankle issue in recent weeks, and Sunderland is concerned that bringing him back too soon could cause more serious damage. Has been training, but Le Bris has stated that next weekend’s match against QPR is the most probable return date at this point.
2. Eliezer Mayenda – major doubt
Mayenda has missed Sunderland’s previous several games due to a muscular ailment, although the club has always been optimistic that it is simply a minor issue. Is back in training and might face Oxford, but with Isidor and Connolly performing well, Le Bris is likely to give him another week to limit any danger.
3. Siriki Dembele – doubt
He was substituted during Oxford’s midweek stalemate with Derby after suffering an ankle injury and will be evaluated in the following days. Not ideal for Oxford, which already has a number of wide players missing.
4. Salis Abdul Samed – out
Samed has been rehabilitating from a recurrence of an injury sustained just before joining Sunderland, and with the risks of another setback serious, the club is taking extreme precautions. It is considered improbable that he will play after the November international break.
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