Lincoln City hopeful of double injury boost ahead of Sunderland clash

The Imps – who beat fellow League One side Shrewsbury Town 4-1 in the Papa John’s Trophy on Tuesday evening – were without Lewis Montsma and James Jones for the clash.

But manager Michael Appleton says he is hopeful the pair could return in time to face the Black Cats this weekend.

He told Lincolnshire Live: “I am (confident). It was precautionary keeping them out of the group tonight. They were a little bit sore on Saturday and Sunday.

“Having had a look at them yesterday (Monday), there was no point taking that risk.

“Hopefully by Thursday we can turn them round and get them ready for Saturday.”

But the Imps will be sweating on the fitness of midfielder Conor McGrandles, was withdrawn at half-time during the win.

“I’m not sure if it was a knock or a twinge in his calf, but it’s a bit concerning as we’re low on numbers,” said Appleton.

"We didn’t want to take any further chances with Conor. We’ll have a better idea later in the week.”

Meanwhile, Sunderland 's under-23 side have seen their Durham Challenge Cup tie with Easington Colliery postponed.

Elliott Dickman was set to take a side to the Northern League outfit on Wednesday evening – but the game was called off due to a waterlogged pitch.

Easington say the game will be re-arranged in due course.

Sunderland had reached the final of last season’s competition before the 2019/20 campaign was brought to an early end.

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