This is what Phil Parkinson said about Chris Maguire's injury after Sunderland's vital win

The influential and popular attacking midfielder was substituted late in the first half of Sunderland’s 1-0 win against Peterborough United with what appeared to be a hamstring problem.

The Scot wanted to play on, but Parkinson decided not to take a risk and replaced him with Aiden O’Brien.

Initial assessments suggest he has suffered an impact injury, which has reassured the Black Cats boss.

“It's a strange one really,” Parkinson said.

“He got whacked on the thigh, so it was more of an impact injury.

“He couldn't shake it off and he's the type of the lad who wants to stay on.

“He wanted to go back on but I wasn't going to take the risk, we've got good players on the bench.

“Without Max [Power] and George [Dobson], and Chris going off, we had to shuffle the pack today, but I thought the lads who came in did well.”

Sunderland travel to Charlton Athletic next week looking to build on an encouraging start to the season that has seen them take seven points from nine, including two wins against promotion rivals.

It is not yet clear whether Maguire will be fit, with a further assessment to be made later in the weekend.

“I don't think it's anything really serious,” Parkinson said.

“I spoke briefly with the physio and he just said that he took a whack.

“At first he felt the pain in his lower hamstring but none of the tests he's done suggest it's a hamstring strain.

“If it's an impact injury, it won't be as long.

“So he shouldn't be out for long, we'll get him in on Sunday and have a look at him.”

Parkinson should be able to call upon Max Power, who was close to being included in the squad after suffering a hamstring injury last week.

The Black Cats boss decided not to take any risks with the midfielder as a busy schedule looms.

Sunderland will still be without George Dobson next Saturday as he serves the final game of his suspension.

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