Cole is yet to kick a first-team ball for Sunderland while Edwards has missed all but the first two games of the season.

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On Tuesday though, both got an hour under their belts for the reserves and could now have some part to play in the key game.

Keane told the Echo: "We'll have to see what happens because though they've had no reaction from the game on Tuesday so far, you do get occasions where it takes a few days before you know for sure if there's going to be any strain.

"But if there's no problems in that direction, then they could come into contention in some shape or form.

"We'll be guided by the advice of the medical staff because the last thing we want to do is take unnecessary risks.

"We've got a two-week international break coming up, so ideally we probably wouldn't have used them. But this is an important game and we have to bear that in mind too."

If Cole is involved, it will certainly only be on the bench but the manager will have to consider whether to start with Edwards or look to bring him on as sub.

Keane added: "Carlos is a naturaly fit lad but just have them in the squad of 18 would be a bonus. Just to have the likes of Andy Cole there in the hotel overnight – same as Dwight Yorke – gives people a lift."

Another player who will come into immediate contention for a place is defender Paul McShane, who is available for selection again after completing a three-match suspension.

Keane said: "Paul will naturally come back into my mind.

"Fitness won't be a problem, Paul's kept himself ticking over in training and he'll be desperate to be involved in first-team football again.

"He's just another one of a few players who are coming back into contention after returning from injury or suspension."

Keane has a clean bill of health from the squad involved in Monday's game against Manchester City. And, as well as Edwards, Cole and McShane, there's a 50-50 chance that veteran midfielder Dwight Yorke might have recovered from a calf strain in time to be available for the derby.