The Black Cats now have three weeks without a game and will return to action on December 3 when they face Millwall at the Stadium of Light.
Tony Mowbray’s squad are set to travel to Dubai for a warm-weather training camp later this month, when some players will step up their recoveries following injury setbacks.
If everyone is fit and available, Mowbray would have some tough decisions to make when the season resumes.
Here’s what Sunderland’s starting XI and bench could look like if the squad is at full strength:
5. LB: Dennis Cirkin
Sunderland have lacked depth at left-back since Cirkin’s arrival at the club last year. The former Tottenham defender could have more competition after the World Cup break, though, with Aji Alese stepping up his recovery. Photo: Frank Reid
6. CM: Corry Evans
Since the end of last season it’s been clear Sunderland lack a back-up option in the holding midfield role. That has highlighted Evans’ importance to the team and the Black Cats have often struggled without their captain in the side. Photo: Stu Forster
7. CM: Dan Neil
Following a spell out of the side at the end of last season, Neil has been a regular starter during this campaign. While he has made some costly mistakes, the 20-year-old has generally enjoyed a good first half of the season. Photo: Martin Swinney
8. RW: Jack Clarke
After last season’s loan spell, Clarke has taken his game to another level this season. The former Tottenham winger has scored four goals and provided six assists in 19 Championship appearances. Photo: Martin Swinney