The two key injury boosts Sunderland are hoping for ahead of Swansea City clash

Mowbray named a young bench for the FA Cup third round win over Shrewsbury Town last weekend, with 15-year-old Chris Rigg making his debut and becoming the club's youngster ever outfield player.

The Sunderland head coach will again be missing a number of senior players through injury for the visit of Swansea City on Saturday, particularly in defence.

Speaking ahead of the Shrewsbury game, Mowbray said that he expected both Aji Alese and Dennis Cirkin to miss the return to Championship action. Alex Pritchard will also be missing after suffering a recurrence of his minor calf injury - with the influential attacking midfielder also a major doubt for the trip to Middlesbrough the following weekend. The Black Cats want to be cautious with the 29-year-old after he had to be withdrawn within minutes of his initial return at Wigan Athletic.

Niall Huggins is also expected to be absent for Swansea's visit.

Though it will depend on their successful return to full training this week, Mowbray was hopeful at this stage that Batth and Evans would be able to take their place in the matchday squad.

"Danny Batth is the closest but I don't think any of the others will be back for Swansea next weekend either," Mowbray said.

"Same with Alex Pritchard.

"Corry Evans isn't travelling for this game but I am hopeful that he'll be back for Swansea City."

Mowbray's options were given a welcome boost at Montgomery Waters Meadow with Lynden Gooch returning from his recent hamstring problem.