Sunderland injury latest: Wilson Isidor and Dan Ballard return timelines amid potential double boost
Sunderland could welcome back two senior players this week, while Dan Ballard and Romaine Mundle remain sidelined
Sunderland’s injury problems are beginning to ease as Régis Le Bris prepares for the Carabao Cup clash against Brentford and Saturday’s Premier League trip to Coventry City.
Thomas Meunier could return from the bench on Wednesday, while Wilson Isidor is also approaching a comeback after missing the last four matches. Both have progressed to work on the training pitches at the Academy of Light.
Brian Brobbey and Habib Diarra are already back in action, although Sunderland face longer waits for Dan Ballard and Romaine Mundle. Here is the latest on the four remaining absentees and their potential return dates.
Wilson Isidor
Isidor has been absent since picking up a knock against Brighton, but resumed running last week and is edging closer to contention. Le Bris has not ruled out involving the striker against Brentford, although the weekend trip to Coventry appears the more likely opportunity for his return. “For Wilson, we are just on the edge [so we'll see],” Le Bris said.
Potential return: Coventry City away, October 31, although Brentford on October 28 has not been ruled out.
Thomas Meunier
Meunier suffered a hamstring injury during the first half of the defeat against Brighton. The Belgian has since resumed individual work, with Le Bris hopeful of introducing him from the bench against Brentford. “Probably Thomas will be available coming off the bench,” Le Bris said. The final decision depends on his progress in training, with Sunderland not planning to start the defender on Wednesday.
Potential return: Brentford at home, October 28, subject to training.
Dan Ballard
Ballard remains unavailable after suffering a hamstring injury while representing Northern Ireland in September. His absence has deprived Le Bris of an important defensive option during a demanding run of fixtures. “It’s a medium-term injury, and we’ll keep you updated,” Le Bris said earlier this month. The defender is not expected back until after the November international break at the earliest, with his recovery potentially extending into December. A specific comeback fixture has not been confirmed.
Expected return: After the November international break at the earliest; potentially December.
Romaine Mundle
Mundle remains a longer-term absentee following surgery on a knee injury. The winger is expected back around the festive period, although that remains an approximate timeframe rather than a confirmed return date. His availability will depend on his rehabilitation and subsequent progress towards match fitness.
Expected return: Around the festive period, subject to recovery.
Nordi Mukiele, Brian Brobbey and Habib Diarra
Mukiele is expected to be fine after being forced off against Leeds with an injury to his throat, with Le Bris reassuring supporters afterwards: “He’s good now.
Brobbey and Diarra have already returned to action. The Dutch striker started Sunday’s goalless draw and played 65 minutes, while Diarra came off the bench during the second half and started against Lech Poznan in the Europa League last week.