Michael Beale reacts to surprise Sunderland injury boost - and explains why it's so key to his plans

Michael Beale says Aji Alese's return is huge for the balance of his Sunderland side.

Alese was a surprise returnee to the starting XI for the 2-0 win over Preston North End at the Stadium of Light on New Year's Day, making his first competitive appearance since the second leg of the play-off semi final against Luton Town. Alese completed 70 minutes before suffering a minor cramp, and delivered a display that suggests he can quickly recapture his impressive form from last season.

Alese's return was particularly welcome as it allowed Trai Hume to return to his favoured right flank.

"It's a huge positive," Beale said.

"Not having him and Dennis, especially with Niall's injury... we've had to move Trai over to the other side and it was nice to get him into his best position today. He then allowed Pritch to go in and play close to Jobe.

"It's a sign of things to come hopefully, we're now going into a schedule where it's two games in 14 days and that will really help people like Aji. He's a really big player for us, he's a calming influence on the back four because he's got a calm personality and he makes good decisions. I thought for a first appearance of the season, he was excellent."

Beale said he expected Alese to play a number of different roles for the remainder of the season, and hopes that he'll be firmly in contention to play some part against Newcastle United this weekend.

"I think we've got to be open," Beale said of his position.

"Today he played as a left back who tucked in to let Jack stay wide and to let Trai get forward on the other side. He can play in a back three or four, he's got a lovely versatility like Dennis does. He's very athletic and it's not easy to find a player of that profile who is also left footed. He gives us a fantastic balance, so we need to get a good week into him so his physical condition is good. He's obviously only played 45 minutes for the U21s team before this, which is nowhere near the intensity of today's game."