How Sunderland and Hull City are shaping up ahead of crucial League One promotion battle

Both sides had some key absentees in their most recent fixtures as they manage a recovery from COVID-19 outbreaks at their clubs.

The Black Cats were without Callum McFadzean for the 0-0 draw with Northampton Town, while Grant McCann's side impressively beat Charlton Athletic 2-0 despite being without five senior players.

McCann was hoping to welcome those players back to training early this week, and first-choice goalkeeper Matt Ingram is set to be back in contention after missing the game.

Currently second in the table, Hull did suffer a major setback this week when talented winger Hakeeb Adelakun was recalled by Bristol City.

Sunderland are set to be without Luke O'Nien and Denver Hume, who are nearing full fitness but unlikely to be able to return on Saturday night.

McFadzean's return would therefore be a big boost to Lee Johnson.

Dion Sanderson impressed in an unfamiliar left-back role on Saturday, but Johnson is also keen to improve the balance of the side by selecting a natural left-footer in that position.

McFadzean had been left out of the squad amid concerns over his recovery from COVID-19.

After returning to the bench in the last two fixtures, Lynden Gooch and Jordan Willis are also pushing for inclusion in the starting XI as they step up their recoveries from respective foot and knee issues.

Will Grigg will be unavailable as Sunderland wait to discover the extent of a knee problem that will keep him sidelined for three weeks, three months or nine months.

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