Sunderland handed fitness boost ahead of Charlton Athletic - but Chris Maguire remains a doubt

The attacking midfielder was withdrawn during the win over Peterborough United after sustaining an impact injury and Parkinson admits he will be touch-and-go for the trip to the Valley.

But captain Max Power will return to the fold after missing the weekend triumph, while Lynden Gooch returned to training on Thursday after a minor groin injury.

Maguire’s injury isn’t thought to be a serious one, and he could return to training next week if he isn’t deemed fit for the trip to London.

“Max Power has trained this week,” said Parkinson.

“Lynden had a slight problem with his groin this week but has joined in today.

"Chris Maguire obviously came off last week but he’s very close as well.”

"He [Maguire] is a doubt,” added Parkinson.

"But if he doesn’t make this week, he’ll certainly be back in training Monday or Tuesday next week.”

If Maguire is not passed fit, Parkinson will have to reshuffle his pack having handed the Scot a start in each of the Black Cats’ three League One outings thus far.

And the Sunderland boss knows his impetus in the final third could be missed.

"He had a decent start to the season,” said Parkinson of Maguire.

"I felt he was a bit disappointing at the start of the last game, and I had a chat with him about that.

"But Chrissy has craft and end product, which ultimately decides football games.”

George Dobson will miss the trip to The Valley through suspension.

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