Steve Cotterill to miss Sunderland clash as assistant gives update on COVID-19 recovery

The former Sunderland assitant manager spent time in intensive care last weekend after testing positive for the virus, and watched his side’s FA Cup defeat to Southampton on Tuesday night from hospital.

Assistant Manager Aaron Wilbraham has been leading the team in his absence and will continue to do so against the Black Cats.

Wilbraham does expect to have more dialogue with Cotterill as the game nears.

“I spoke to him very briefly on Wednesday,” Wilbraham said.

“He had a bit of a rough day, he wasn't feeling any worse and he hadn't declined or anything, he was just feeling a bit groggy.

“I spoke to him again later on and I'm sure I'll be speaking to him more towards the weekend.

“The gaffer is so detailed in his preparation and his training methods that we've just tried to stick to that pattern,” he added.

“It's what the lads are used to and it's what has been getting them success in recent games.”

That 2-0 defeat at St Mary’s on Tuesday night was Shrewsbury’s first game of 2021, after the virus outbreak over the festive period.

Cotterill’s arrival had sparked a major upturn in their form, with four wins in five games and three of those against sides currently occupying top six positions.

Sunderland head coach Lee Johnson sent a message of best wishes to Cotterill on behalf of the club earlier this week.

“Everyone at Sunderland just wants to wish him well," he said.

"We'd seen that he's been in intensive care and we're glad to hear that he's doing better.

"We're hoping that we see him on Saturday and if not, we hope that he has a full and swift recovery. That's the most important thing."

Wilbraham knows Johnson well from his time at Bristol City and has warned his side they must be prepared for a reaction.

“I had Lee Johnson as my manager at Bristol City so I know what he's about, he likes to play football and they'll be looking to bounce back from a tough defeat, so we need to be ready for that,” he said.

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Sunderland AFC coverage 365 days a year.

We’ve launched a new transfer window special offer for readers to get 20% off our subscription package.

Use the promo code TRANSFER20 to sign up here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor