'With a heavy heart' - Sunderland and Wolves defender reacts after season-ending injury

On Tuesday, ahead of the visit of Blackpool to Wearside, Lee Johnson confirmed Sanderson is unlikely to play again this season as he faces six weeks on the sidelines.

The 21-year-old returned to Wolves last week to undergo scans on a back problem that has kept him out of Sunderland's recent fixtures.

The defender tweeted: “With a heavy heart I have to say I am unable to play for the remainder of the season due to injury, I would like to thank the manager the players and the fantastic fans.

"I wish you all the best and will be supporting you all the way. Ha’way the lads @SunderlandAFC”

“Dion will be out for six weeks,” Johnson said.

“He’s a good personality and a great kid first and foremost, but the bit that most impressed me was how he stepped up in the leadership and communications skills areas, which shows he has a bright future.”

"It’s a big blow, but I don’t think about those types of things in that way.

“I look at it as a challenge – otherwise its woe is me – and it’s not about me, it’s about the team and giving someone an opportunity or adjusting it."

Sunderland host Blackpool at the Stadium of Light on Tuesday evening, with the Black Cats hoping to confirm a play-off spot.

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