Grant Leadbitter given leave of absence from Sunderland to deal with personal issues

Phil Parkinson expects the 34-year-old midfielder to be away for a few weeks due to personal issues.

“Grant is going to have a few weeks away,” Parkinson said.

“He's got some personal issues he needs to sort and we're going to give him any help we can.

“He's going to have some time away from the club and hopefully he'll come back stronger and fitter than ever.”