Phil Parkinson explains why Sunderland can expect to see the best of Marc McNulty after persistent injury problem

McNulty started the campaign brightly, and remains the club’s top scoring striker this season with five goals in all competitions.

His progress has recently been affected by a number of niggling injuries, and he did not feature in either of the club’s last two League One games against Coventry City and Burton Albion.

He has made a successful return to training this week, coming through his first sessions unscathed.

He is set to join Charlie Wyke in the matchday squad for the trip to Gillingham this weekend, and Parkinson has explained why he hopes for a good run of form from the Scot.

“It was the third time Marc had this hamstring injury since he's been there,” he said.

“The medical department spent a bit longer trying to get to the bottom of it, he ended up having an epidural in his back.

“They realised there was no muscle damage, it was coming from a nerve problem.

“He's feeling good and it's a big bonus for him because if you're a player who relies on that burst of pace of pace to get away from people but you're worried about that hamstring tightening and going, that's always going to be at the back of your mind.

“He's a lot happier now that we've resolved that.”

Parkinson remains without Lynden Gooch, who has been sidelined since the 5-0 win over Tranmere Rovers in later October.

The Black Cats boss hopes that the 23-year-old will be available for selection soon after a promising week of progress at the Academy of Light.

“Lynden is progressing well, he’s running again and has been doing so all week, twisting and turning,” Parkinson said.

“It’s just striking a ball that is not quite right for him but he is getting there.”

Elliot Embleton remains a long-term absentee, while Max Power is suspended for the crucial League One clash.