Phil Parkinson gives fitness update on Sunderland trio Elliot Embleton, Danny Graham and Arbenit Xhemajli

Phil Parkinson is backing Embleton to make an impact this season, but his pre-season campaign was disrupted by a thigh injury from which he has now almost recovered.

"He's nearly there," Parkinson said.

"He's done most of the work in training today and hopefully he'll back fully next week."

Parkinson has an otherwise fully-fit squad to choose from, and has not yet ruled out Danny Graham and Arbenit Xhemajli from playing a part.

Both players made their competitive debuts in the 8-1 win over Aston Villa U23s on Tuesday night.

Xhemajli played the full 90 minutes, while Graham scored in an impressive cameo from the bench.

"They both did part of the [training] session today," Parkinson said.

"Danny did a bit more than Arbenit and it's now getting those players right up to speed.

"They're not far off, Arbenit played the full 90 on Tuesday and we'll see how he is tomorrow. We'll see how Danny is as well.

"Tuesday was an important for game for us in terms of getting the players minutes and getting them ready. I felt there was a huge benefit for us."

Parkinson has a number of big selection decisions to make ahead of the weekend, particularly up front and in midfield.

Will Grigg was given the nod to lead the line against Hull City in the Carabao Cup last weekend, and though he missed the crucial penalty in the shootout, he performed well and Parkinson felt he was building on his momentum from pre-season.

Charlie Wyke, though, responded to his surprise exclusion by scoring twice in midweek.

"I'm pleased with Charlie because when you've been left out the team, what you've got to do is respond," Parkinson said.

"He scored a couple against Carlisle [in pre-season] and then again on Tuesday night. You want people to do the talking on the pitch and Charlie did that.

"I feel Griggy has had a very good pre-season, he's looked sharp and it's an interesting dilemma.It's a good one to have, though.

"Then there's Danny, who trained today and got 25 minutes the other night, who is going to be a key player for us this season."

Josh Scowen also pushed his selection claims in the emphatic EFL Trophy win.

The midfielder produced three assists and a goal in a dominant display, and is pushing George Dobson for a place int he starting XI.

Parkinson feels Scowen, who made just one start last season after his January arrival, is 'growing into his role at the club.

"I'm pleased with Josh," Parkinson said.

"He's grown into the club. It was difficult when he came in because the lads [in the team] were doing so well, but he's a good player.

"He's feisty, he'll tackle but he can handle the ball and play. He's got the ability to break forward at the right time as well, which he obviously showed on Tuesday night and in the pre-season game against Gateshead as well."