Sunderland are dealing with several injury concerns after the international break, with Brian Brobbey and Dan Ballard the two major causes for worry after appearing to injure their hamstrings and returning to the club for further assessments. Noah Sadiki and Wilson Isidor have also raised concerns, but both players seem to be okay at this stage.
Brobbey and Ballard return with hamstring injuries
Brian Brobbey injured his hamstring in the Netherlands' 1-1 draw with Germany in the Nations League. Netherlands boss Xabi said: "Brian is indeed injured, unfortunately, so we will call up another striker. We haven’t decided who yet; I haven’t had time for that yet." His possible return date is unknown.
Dan Ballard appeared to injure his hamstring while on international duty for Northern Ireland in their 1-0 win over Georgia. Northern Ireland said: "Northern Ireland defender Dan Ballard has left the senior men’s camp and returned to his club after picking up an injury in Friday night’s UEFA Nations league win against Georgia. Daniel left today to return to Sunderland, we wish Dan a speedy recovery." His possible return date is also unknown.
Diarra nearing return, Mundle out until January
Habib Diarra came off the bench against Fulham in August, setting up Wilson Isidor for the winner, but injured his hamstring in the process. He was expected to be out for six to eight weeks and is nearing a return. Le Bris said: "Habib is in the middle of his recovery." His possible return date is October 10 against Brighton.
Romaine Mundle has a knee injury. Le Bris said: "Romaine has a knee injury, which is a shame because he had a good pre-season. We will support him and hope he is ready by the end of the year." His possible return date is January 2027.
Le Bris will speak to the press on Thursday and give an update on injuries ahead of the clash with Brighton.
