Johnson is hopeful over the return of Winchester
Sunderland are hoping that Carl Winchester could return for the clash with Sheffield Wednesday tonight.
The Northern Irishman has been a key figure for the Black Cats this season whether at right back or in midfield, but missed the 3-0 win over Doncaster with a calf/Achilles problem. Even if the 28- year old is notable to return against Darren Moore’s side, then it looks clear that he has avoided a serious issue will be ready for action in the new year.
Lee Johnson said: “He's steadily improving. Whether or not he' ll make it for the game is another question - we're giving him any chance. We've left him off it [training] as long as possible to let the injury heal, and to give it a lot of therapy. I'd probably he is 50/50 for the Sheffield Wednesday game.”
Johnson’s options in midfield were boosted by the return of Corr yE van sat Doncaster, and that the strong lead Sunderland established there allowed him to be replaced after an hour of action.
“It absolutely strengthens us,” Johnson said.
“Obviously, the only worry is him going into a second game three days later, but it was nice to be in charge of the game enough that we could take him off after half an hour. That will definitely serve us well going into the Wednesday game.”
Sunderland are hopeful that the game will proceed as planned, with the Owls having not played since December 11,due to a Covid-19 outbreak.
Mo ore’ s side have been back in training and it is therefore expected that the game will go ahead on schedule. Sunderland will be without Aiden O’Brien and Ellis Taylor due to positive results, while Johnson confirmed on Monday that Jordan Willis had also tested positive.