Sunderland keeper an injury doubt for Hartlepool friendly
Jordan Pickford could be a doubt for the start of Sunderland's friendly programme after sustaining a thigh injury.
Pickford is understood to have been unable to participate in Sunderland's final few sessions at their Austrian training base, as the Black Cats concluded their nine-day stint in the Alps.
Sunderland's squad flew back to the North East this morning and Pickford's injury will now be assessed by the club's medical staff.
However, with Sunderland beginning their schedule of six friendlies at Hartlepool United on Wednesday night, the England Under-21 keeper could be a doubt for the encounter at Victoria Park.