Down to bare bones: Oviedo out for up to three weeks

Sunderland are “down to the bare bones” for tomorrow’s tough trip to Wolves, according to boss Chris Coleman.

Coleman yesterday confirmed that the Black Cats head south to take on the Championship leaders without the services of Costa Rican full-back Bryan Oviedo (pictured), who will be sidelined for two to three weeks.

He limped off against Reading last week with a hamstring problem.

Added to that, the Molineux game has come around too soon for duo Didier Ndong and Billy Jones, despite the pair returning to light training with the full first-team squad yesterday morning.

Midfielder Paddy McNair also misses out, with Coleman revealing that the Northern Irishman will be out for a week.

Coleman said: “After last Saturday, we have lost Bryan Oviedo for two to three weeks. “Paddy McNair is another week before joining in. “Jones joined in a light training session, so did Ndong – but they are nowhere near ready to play. Both came though OK but are not ready to be involved.”

Reflecting on the situation ahead of an already difficult trip to the Midlands, Coleman added: “It is where we are.

“I think, if we look forward, it will give younger ones a taste of it.

“Some have experience, they will get more. That’s how they will get better.

“It is a huge challenge. A great game.

“We are down to our bare bones, but it’s still a great game, big crowd good atmosphere.”

On-loan Everton defender Brendan Galloway looks likely to replace Oviedo in the starting line-up.