Ejaria set to fill void left by injured McNair

Ovie Ejaria is in line for a Sunderland return against Norwich City after Paddy McNair’s injury blow.

McNair has been integral recently but is set to sit out the visit of the Canaries to the Stadium of Light (KO 7.45pm) after picking up a knock at Leeds United.

It opens the door for a return to the side for Liverpool loanee Ejaria.

Coleman said: “It’s nothing to do with his old injury, Paddy got a bang on Saturday and it hasn’t settled down.

“He didn’t train Monday, and while he has an outside chance [of being involved], he will probably not be available.

“He has that power in his legs, he is a great footballer, and he is good at everything. He is a loss when he is not there, you have to say that.

“Other players come in with different qualities but he is one of those that, at this level, any team would want him. He makes us better, it’s as simple as that, so he is a loss.”

McNair’s loss is set to be Ejaria’s gain, with Coleman hinting at a return.

Coleman added: “He has shown some really good things, some things you can tell he has been in Under-23 football.

“He has all the tools but hasn’t had the experience, he will get it.

“Ovie, he has the capacity to turn a game with one slick pass. He is brave and always wants the ball, he has been caught in possession now and again.

“The level we play you can’t compare it to Under-23 football.

“He could get a chance against Norwich, it is a great game for him to go and shine and show what he has got.”

Billy Jones remains out, while Marc Wilson will miss the game with a groin injury, Bryan Oviedo is back training, though, and set to return at left-back.