Injuries have not been kind to Sunderland this season. The Black Cats have repeatedly been hindered by setbacks involving a number of their most important players, and as the Championship season approaches its final stages, it would appear that Regis Le Bris’ fortunes are not likely to improve any time soon.
In a press conference on Thursday afternoon, ahead of his side’s clash with Millwall this weekend, the head coach confirmed that he will be without both Dennis Cirkin and Leo Hjelde against the Lions, while Enzo Le Fée and Dan Ballard are still a short way away from full fitness too.
Speaking about Cirkin, Le Bris said: “Probably two or three weeks more. The season was like that, with many injuries and opportunities for other players. So, to manage a situation like that.” Focusing on Hjelde, the Frenchman added: “He shouldn't be available for Saturday. Next week.”
Other players currently sidelined include Salis Abdul Samed, who is expected back in two to three weeks, Ahmed Abdullahi, Jayden Danns, Trey Ogunsuyi, Niall Huggins, Aji Alese, Ian Poveda, and Jenson Seelt, who has suffered a fresh injury setback following his recent comeback from a long-term knee problem.
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Speaking about Seelt, Le Bris said: “It's a little bit tough for him because he's returned from competition with such a long injury. He doesn't feel good with his knee, with different small problems, so I think we will have to wait maybe one or two weeks to be very clear and fresh, and I don't know if it will be at 100 per cent at the end of the season, we'll see.”
But with so many injuries to contend with, it begs the question, what does Sunderland’s starting XI actually look like when everybody is fit and available? Check out our thoughts below...
5. Dennis Cirkin - LB
Started the season at an electric pace, and while he may have dipped off a little in the wake of an injury setback, it is undeniable that on his day, Cirkin remains one of the best full-backs in the Championship, and the sooner he is back in contention, the better. | Getty Images
6. Dan Neil - CM
Sunderland's captain, and one of their most consistent performers to boot. Neil dictates matches from the base of midfield, and oozes the kind of quality that will surely take him to the Premier League one day. | Getty Images
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7. Jobe Bellingham - CM
A man in demand, Bellingham is a superstar in waiting. Continues to go from strength to strength, and boasts the presence of a talent far beyond his years. | Sunderland AFC via Getty Images
8. Enzo Le Fee - CM
The recent return of Le Fee, and the potential to see him in his favoured central midfield role, could be hugely exciting developments for Sunderland's promotion push this season. We've only seen glimpses of what the Frenchman can do, but already he looks like one of the best players in the division. Le Bris is likely to be cautious with his January signing to avoid an aggravation of the hamstring injury which kept him out for so long, but his comeback is a major positive. | Getty Images