Sunderland Echo

Jordan could make Black Cats debut in Trophy clash

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Jordan Jones could make his Sunderland debut in the Papa John's Trophy quarter-final this evening.

The January signing arrived on Wearside short of regular gametime at parent club Rangers, but Johnson believes his base level of fitness is good.

The winger looks unlikely to start against MK Dons but could be involved in the matchday squad.

"I think he's fit enough to be involved," Johnson said.

"He has been training with the Rangers first team every day for the last six to eight weeks, and he played for Northern Ireland I think at the end of November.

"So we'll look to get him some minutes if possible, but it depends on the game really, the balance of the side and where his fitness is when we get a good look at him."

Johnson confirmed after the 2-2 draw with Gillingham on Saturday that he will look to freshen up his side, but his options are limited for a number of reasons.

Bailey Wright returned to training on Monday but is suspended, while Dion Sanderson and Jake Vokins are both cup-tied.

Ross Stewart is eligible for the game, but it is not yet clear whether he will be fit enough to be involved.

Stewart's last appearance for Ross County came on December 23rd, though manager John Hughes said he was fit to return from a hamstring injury shortly before his move to Wearside was finalised.

“I never try to pick a team straight after a result I'm disappoint­ed with, emotions can be too high," Johnson said on Saturday.

"We want to be competitiv­e and we want to win every game, this one is no different."

 ?? ?? Jordan Jones.
Jordan Jones.

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