Midfield boost for Sunderland's League One rivals while Newcastle United eye 25-goal striker

Fears the Newcastle United midfielder, who has formed an integral part of the Millers’ midfielder in a push for third tier automatic promotion, could be sidelined until the summer have been allayed by manager Paul Warne.

Barlaser was stretchered off with an ankle injury amid worrying scenes following lengthy medical treatment in the club's recent top-of-the-table game at Coventry City on February 25.

Speaking to the Yorkshire Post, Warne said: "Dan Barlaser looks like he's got the all-clear, which is good. He'll be back training towards the back end of this week or start of next.”

Meanwhile, Newcastle have a again been linked with a move for Norway international frontman Alexander Sorloth.

The striker has netted 25 goals in a loan spell at Turkish outfit Trabzonspor from Premier League Crystal Palace.

A report in Turkiye claims Aston Villa and Newcastle are interested in the player.

And finally, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has been discussing the prospect of another ‘tricky’ trip to St James’s Park after the Magpies were drawn against his side in the sixth round of the FA Cup.

"We don't play to be champions but to retain the second position and play good in the finals that we have in the FA Cup and the Champions League,” he said.

"So, now, before the international break, we're going to travel to Newcastle and in the last years we struggled.”