Lee Johnson gives full Sunderland injury update after Will Grigg boost

Sunderland had feared the 29-year-old could be out for the rest of the campaign as they investigated a long-standing knee issue.

Head coach Johnson was concerned that the striker has not been moving as comfortably as he should for a period of time, and was eager to get to the bottom of the problem.

A specialist has told the club this week that surgery is not the best option at this stage, meaning a much shorter spell on the sidelines for the striker.

“It was good news for us in terms of it being the best-case scenario,” Johnson said.

“Initially we were told it could be could three weeks, three months or nine months, depending on what the surgeon said.

“The surgeon came back and said that he believes at this stage, the rest period will be the most beneficial option and so he'll be back after that three week period.”

Johnson is also set to welcome Callum McFadzean back to the squad for the visit of Hull City on Saturday night.

McFadzean was left out of the squad for the trip to Northampton Town amid concerns over his recovery from contracting COVID-19.

Dion Sanderson deputised well in his absence, but Johnson is eager to ensure he has a natural left-footed option in the squad to provide some balance, feeling it was one of the issues that blunted his attacking plans last week.

“Callum is much better," Johnson said.

“Dion did really well last Saturday but Callum has now had a good week of recovery and training.”

Denver Hume, the first choice in that position for the season so far, is making good progress in his recovery.

“Denver had a hamstring problem but he's been out with the physios today, sprinting at 100%,” Johnson said.

“That tells you he's very confident with it and that means the medical department have done a great job with it.

“He's probably a minimum of ten days away still as we've got to build him up from here, but it's a very good sign.”

Luke O’Nien remains sidelined as he recovers from a dislocated shoulder.

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Sunderland AFC coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of SAFC coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription to our new sports-only package here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor