Phil Parkinson gives Sunderland injury update ahead of Ipswich Town clash

The Black Cats bounced back from two disappointing results with the 2-0 win over Gillingham on Saturday, and Phil Parkinson has confirmed that his squad came through that contest unscathed.

Jordan Willis was left out of the matchday 18 for that game, with Parkinson revealing afterwards that they are managing a knee problem through to the clash with MK Dons on November 14th.

After that, he will have an injection and a subsequent period of two to three weeks rest.

Chris Maguire could be in line for a return to the starting XI after his fine cameo from the bench. The popular attacking midfielder scored the winner the last time the two sides met in February.

There is further good news for Parkinson as Elliot Embleton nears a return from injury.

The youngster scored twice in a 2-0 win for the U23s over Aston Villa last Friday, and the Black Cats boss says he is on track in the recovery.

Tuesday night will come too soon for the 21-year-old but he is closing in on a comeback.

"It's good news because we've got no new injuries from the weekend, so everyone is available for selection,” Parkinson said.

"I'm pleased for Elliot. He's had a 45 and now a 60 minutes for the U23s and we are just building him up gradually and taking our time with him.

"I've looked at his goals against Villa on the video, he did really well and we're glad he is progressing and is on track - it's good news for him.”

Sunderland did, however, suffer a separate injury blow in that game.

Benji Kimpioka was substituted with a hamstring problem in the second half of the contest, having made a superb start to his campaign.

The Swedish youngster has scored six times since finally settling a contract dispute earlier this summer, and while the Black Cats are waiting on the results of a scan, it’s believed that he is facing a battle to play again this year.

"Benji played for the U23s against Aston Villa on Friday night and came off with a hamstring injury,” Parkinson said.

"He's had a scan on it today and we are waiting to get the results through, probably tomorrow.

"It's a shame for him because he had been doing well for the U23s.”

Parkinson also offered an update on summer signing Arbenit Xhemajli, who has been ruled out for the season with a cruciate ligament injury.

Xhemajli successfully underwent surgery last week, and has now returned to the Academy of Light as he sets out on the long road to recovery.

"He was back at the Academy today, but of course he has a long road back to fitness ahead of him,” Parkinson said.

"It's a shame for him because he was so determined to make an impression over here after signing, he can still do that but he'll have to wait until next season now.”

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