Sunderland’s season came to a disappointing end – yet preparations have already begun ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
The Black Cats have had to deal with several injury issues this year, with some members of the squad set to face lengthy spells on the sidelines.
Here are the Sunderland players who have been unavailable recently and when they are expected to return.
5. Elliot Embleton
After returning from a thigh injury, which he suffered while on loan at Derby, Embleton sustained an ankle issue in training in February. The midfielder was closing in on a first-team return at the end of the 2023/24 campaign, yet Sunderland's focus has been to make sure the 25-year-old is ready for pre-season. Photo: Frank Reid
6. Jay Matete
Matete's season ended prematurely after he suffered another knee injury during his loan spell at Oxford. The 23-year-old underwent a minor knee surgery in March but is expected to return to training ahead of pre-season. Photo: Frank Reid
7. Jewison Bennette
Bennette picked up an injury during his frustrating loan spell at Greek club Aris FC, where he made just two appearances. The plan was always for the 19-year-old to return to Sunderland for pre-season, while Bennette has said his setback was just a small injury. Photo: Frank Reid
8. Chris Rigg
Rigg is away with England's under-17s squad for the European Under-17 Championships finals in Cyprus. The competition will run until Wednesday, June 5, while the midfielder will receive some time off after the tournament. Photo: Frank Reid