Sunderland are closing in on their first home match of the season at lunch-time.
The Black Cats kicked off the campaign with a 2-0 win over Cardiff City last weekend and are now set to return to the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland will host Sheffield Wednesday this afternoon, whom they faced in their previous league clash on Wearside on the final day of the previous season.
The hosts were beaten by the Owls on that day and will be hoping things can go their own way this time.
However, fans were left concerned when the team news was shared this morning, with Alan Browne the one noticeable absentee from the starting line-up.
The midfielder made his debut last week and really impressed, keeping out Chris Rigg after signing his first professional contract over the summer.
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Journalist issues injury update on Browne
However, the 17-year-old has been named in his place today, while the club confirmed that Browne was missing ‘due to a minor knock’.
Journalist James Copley has since provided a positive update on his injury.
Writing on X, Copley said: “Just spotted Alan Browne walking into the players’ lounge freely. No leg brace or anything visible so hopefully very minor. Fingers crossed!”
Regis Le Bris went onto speak to Sky Sports about Browne’s absence, saying: “Just a little problem with his calf. It won’t be too long I think.”
Can Chris Rigg keep his place in the starting line-up?
Browne was a standout performer against Cardiff and received high praise from supporters.
With Rigg starting against Preston in the Carabao Cup midweek, his teammate could have been expected to make a second consecutive start.
However, his absence leaves Rigg with the perfect opportunity to fight for his place in the team.
The teenager looked very ‘positive’ against the Lilywhites and was one of the Black Cats’ best players in the second half of last season.
Rigg undeniably has one of the highest ceilings at the club and while his game-time needs to be handled carefully, fans definitely won’t be disappointed that he has had to come back into the line-up.
If the youngster can make his mark on today’s game, then there is absolutely no reason why he can’t leap ahead of Browne in the pecking order.
Having such strong competition in midfield can only benefit the players, though it will be interesting to see how the team manage without another experienced figure in Browne on the pitch, given how difficult it was last term.