Key Sunderland duo set for Watford return

Midfielder Cattermole has been out since November with a hip problem that required corrective surgery, while forward Anichebe has been out with a knee injury since January 21.

And Moyes has penciled the duo in for a return to action when the Premier League resumes on April 1.

Although he is careful to point out that Nigerian striker Anichebe is closer to a return against Watford than Cattermole.

"We hope that Victor could be back and maybe Catts," said Moyes.

"I think Catts could get some training in but the one we’re really looking to see if we can get back is Victor.

"There are no guarantees but I know Victor’s doing a bit more running and hopefully getting closer.

"My bigger worry is how can they get a level of match fitness to make a difference and help us in such a short time.

"I have to hope that we can get them back and give ourselves another dimension, even if it’s getting them back off the bench late on.

"I’ll probably play one [a friendly] this week because we have three games in a week coming up and we’ll need the squad of players we’ve got."