Parkinson hopeful on Gooch injury
Phil Parkinson is hopeful that Lynden Gooch has not suffered a serious injury.
Gooch was taken off in the 53rd minute of the 5-0 win over Tranmere Rovers with an ankle problem, having earlier scored the third goal as the Black Cats raced into a three-goal lead in the first half.
He was in clear discomfort but the Sunderland boss received a positive update after the game.
“He’s twisted his ankle,” Parkinson said.
“The physio has just told me he doesn’t think it’s too serious but obviously he was unable to carry on.
“We certainly weren’t going to take any risks with him because we lost Charlie [Wyke] at the weekend and we can’t afford to lose many more because we’ve got a lot of games coming up.”
Wyke will be out for at least four weeks after damaging his ankle ligaments, but Aiden McGeady will be available againthisweekendafterserving a suspension.
Meanwhile, rumoured Sunderland target Lawrence Shankland continues to hit the goal trail – and is attracting interest ahead of the January transfer window.
The Scottish striker was heavily linked with the Stadium of Light throughout the summer, but eventually joined Dundee United in the second tier of his homeland.
Shankland has gone on to net 15 times already this term which also earning a maiden international call-up, and such form has naturally attracted interest.
Celtic and Rangers are both reportedly keen on a deal for the 24-year-old – but Dundee United sporting director Tony Asghar has ruled out an exit for the forward.