Sunderland sweating on key men ahead of MK Dons clash with two players already ruled-out

The Black Cats will face Russell Martin’s men on Saturday at the Stadium of Light, but may have to make do without some regular first-team members.

Phil Parkinson will definitely be unable to call upon Conor McLaughlin and Tom Flanagan, both of whom are already ruled out of contention having been called-up for international duty with Northern Ireland.

Jordan Willis is expected to return to the side before receiving an injection to help control his ongoing knee problem.

Sunderland could have some concerns in both wing-back areas, with Denver Hume and Luke O’Nien both picking up minor knocks last week.

Neither trained prior to the visit to Fleetwood Town on Tuesday and are set to be monitored ahead of the visit of the Dons.

Hume was set for an injection over the weekend to try and stifle the knee problem that saw him miss the win at Swindon Town last month, while O’Nien suffered damage to his medial ligament against Ipswich.

On the left flank, there is also concern over Callum McFadzean who pulled up during the 2-1 defeat at Highbury.

Parkinson said following the game that he hoped the injury was a relatively minor one, and the wing-back was able to take a seat in the stands after being withdrawn with lengthy treatment not required.

Lynden Gooch is also a potential doubt after he too picked up a knock during the latter part of last week.

But Sunderland will potentially be able to welcome back Josh Scowen, who took part in some training on Monday after being withdrawn from the win over Ipswich Town with concussion.

None of the injuries are thought to be particularly serious, with Parkinson hopeful an extended rest from match action will have benefited the individuals concerned.

Under-23 players Oliver Younger and Cieran Dunne will also be monitored after being withdrawn from the Papa John’s Trophy game at Fleetwood.

Parkinson will face the press at 12:45pm on Friday, November 13 to discuss the latest injury news ahead of Saturday’s game.

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