Sunderland youngster set for spell on sidelines after suffering hamstring injury

The Echo understands that Kimpioka has a hamstring problem that could keep him out of action for up to two months, leaving him with a battle to play again this year.

It’s a significant blow for the youngster, who has been in exceptional form since finally settling the long impasse over a new contract earlier this summer.

Kimpioka has six goals for an U23 side that have won three of their last four.

The injury, however, means that the 20-year-old seems certain to miss out on the chance to stake his claim for senior action in the club’s upcoming cup fixtures.

Phil Parkinson has already signalled that he will reward the club’s in-form academy talent with the chance to impress against Mansfield Town in the FA Cup next Saturday, and Fleetwood Town in the Papa John’s Trophy days later.

“They'll definitely get opportunities [in the cup games],” Parkinson said.

“We've also got senior players who haven't had a great many opportunities of late, as well.

"The young players have had a reasonable integration in terms of the pre-season and the Trophy games, and there another couple coming up after the next two league games.

“That will be an opportunity for some of those to get another chance and really start staking a claim."

Those games could also mark the return of Elliot Embleton, who scored twice in the win over Aston Villa as he stepped up his recovery from a thigh problem.

Callum McFadzean could also make his debut in those games, after playing 45 minutes in the win.

Kimpioka took to Instagram on Saturday morning to react to his injury disappointment, vowing to return stronger.

“Today is the day I will have to face one of my biggest fears for the first time, an injury,” he wrote.

"But there is no obstacle that can stop me.

"I am grateful that I’m facing this obstacle because I know I will come back stronger, faster and better. Thank you God once again.”

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