Sunderland’s players are set to return for pre-season training at the end of this month – but not everyone will be available immediately.
Several members of the Black Cats’ squad missed the end of the 2023/24 campaign due to injury setbacks, while some players have been away on international duty and may receive additional time off.
Here are the Sunderland players who have been unavailable, including those away representing their countries, recently and when they are expected to return.
9. Niall Huggins
The full-back was stretchered off during Sunderland's 3-0 defeat against Coventry in December with a knee injury and has been ruled out until the New Year at the earliest. Photo: FRANK REID
10. Jobe Bellingham
Bellingham was named in England’s under-20s squad for two friendly matches against Sweden and the Republic of Ireland this month. The 18-year-old started the match against Sweden, playing an hour as England won 2-1, and was an unused substitute as Ben Futcher’s side drew 2-2 with Ireland four days later. Photo: Frank Reid
11. Dan Ballard
Ballard started both of Northern Ireland's friendly matches against Spain and Andorra this month. The 24-year-old opened the scoring inside two minutes against Spanish, before Michael O'Neill’s side were beaten 5-1 in Mallorca. Ballard then captained his national side in a 2-0 win over Andorra. Photo: Frank Reid
12. Trai Hume
Hume was also called up by Northern Ireland and played 77 minutes against Spain. The full-back was then an unused substitute for the Andorra match. Photo: Frank Reid