Michael Beale has updated fans on the injury front ahead of Huddersfield vs Sunderland as Callum Styles closes in on his Black Cats debut.
Sunderland go into Wednesday’s game with the hope that they will return to the Championship playoffs. The Black Cats briefly returned after their 3-1 victory over Plymouth at the Stadium of Light. However, Coventry’s victory on Sunday ensured that this was short-lived.
Beale’s side goes into the game with every chance of coming away with a victory once again. Huddersfield have struggled for the majority of the current campaign and finds themselves two points above the relegation zone in 21st.
Multiple players shone on the weekend, including Dan Neil who received widespread praise for his performance. Now Beale’s side will be looking to repeat this feat as they travel to Yorkshire.
The manager received a potential boost ahead of the fixture as he provided an injury update, including the fitness of new signing Callum Styles.
Callum Styles – injury latest
The Hungarian signed from Barnsley on loan on deadline day with the option to buy as Sunderland bolstered their ranks.
Styles came into the Blacks Cats with a good reputation with the 23-year-old being one of Barnsley’s best players. However, since coming into the club at the start of February, Styles has been unable to put on a red and white shirt.
The 23-year-old has recently had his Appendicitis removed which has put him out of action in recent weeks. In the build-up to Huddersfield vs Sunderland, Beale had a positive update about the return of the attacker.
The manager told Sunderland: “Callum Styles has re-joined the group – the game on Wednesday will be too early for him, but he might be in contention for the weekend.”
Corry Evans – injury latest
The captain has been a forgotten man at Sunderland over recent times. After playing a key role in the Black Cats’ promotion back to the Championship, Evans’ campaign was cut short last season.
The midfielder suffered a serious injury against Middlesbrough in January 2023 to which he still hasn’t returned from.
However, recent evidence suggests that his comeback is now close. Beale also spoke about his potential return, as he explained when the 33-year-old would be returning to the first-team fold.
He added: “Corry Evans is back on the grass now, but he’ll do a couple of days with the Under-21s to phase him back in.”
Elliot Embleton – injury latest
Another player who was highly influential in Sunderland’s promotion-winning campaign. Embleton was once a vital cog in the Black Cats’ starting XI and opened the scoreline in their playoff final.
However, since then the 24-year-old has struggled with injuries. After being out for almost all of the 2023/24 season, Embleton looked to regain fitness on loan to Derby this campaign.
This was cut short in December after another long-term injury as a result of torn quadriceps. The midfielder then returned to Sunderland for rehabilitation and he looked to be close to making a return.
In his most recent interview, Beale revealed that a setback had occurred which may affect his return date.