Sunderland suffer injury setback with Denver out
Denver Hume could be sidelined until the new year after suffering a hamstring problem in the 1-0 defeat to Wigan Athletic on Saturday.
New head coach Lee Johnson confirmed that the youngster is likely to be absent for three to four weeks, leaving Callum McFadzean as his only natural left-back for a busy festive schedule.
“It's his hamstring,” Johnson said.
“My guestimate on that would be three to four weeks.
“It's frustrating being a muscle injury. In six weeks time I'll take responsibility for that, because I don't want muscle injuries. But in this COVID world, they've been up 45% across the board, from Premier League to League Two.
“It's a by-product of the amount of games we've had in quick succession.”
Johnson also confirmed that Charlie Wyke will return to the squad when the Black Cats take on Oldham Athletic in the Papa John’s Trophy this evening.
Wyke missed the defeat to Wigan but Johnson says he is looking forward to introducing a player who he rates highly.
Defender Jordan Willis won’t feature as he recovers from an injection in his patellar tendon, but is nearing a return.
“Jordan Willis has been out running on the training pitches,” Johnson said.
“I haven't had the pleasure of being able to coach him yet, but he's certainly been out in that rehabilitation phase.
“Charlie Wyke should be alright.
“I really like him, I think he's a good player and a good lad. I'm looking forward to getting him in and about it. He's in the squad for Oldham.”