Sunderland are getting hit left, right, and centre by injuries, and yet another name has been added to the list according to Regis Le Bris in his latest press conference.
Injuries have blighted Sunderland’s season, with the likes of Romaine Mundle, Tommy Watson, and Alan Browne missing months at a time.
It’s impressive, then, that Regis Le Bris has been able to keep the Black Cats in the promotion race for so long this season.
Fans and pundits were ‘annoyed’ by Le Bris’ approach to the recent draw against Preston North End. The Mackems are up against Coventry City this weekend, looking to bounce back, but have another issue to deal with already.
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Leo Hjelde has a ‘small injury’ to deal with
Speaking to the press (via the club’s official YouTube account), the Sunderland manager was asked about the status of the squad when it comes to injuries, and though it isn’t the worst news, Le Bris revealed Leo Hjelde has picked up a knock.
He said: “There are no worries [in the squad]. Leo could maybe need some days to rest after a small injury. But the others are okay.”
However, there is an opportunity for Sunderland to get back on track soon. The upcoming international break will be a chance for the Black Cats to rest and recover before they head into the dramatic run-in leading up to the eventual play-off dates.
Le Bris added: “We have a rest for the international break, and then the rest of the season will be a sprint. We have the opportunity to reset, reflect and come up with new ideas.”
After Saturday’s game against Coventry, Sunderland are not in action again until the 29th of March, when they face Millwall at the Stadium of Light.
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Leo Hjelde is a loss, but not a massive one at this stage
He may not be one of the first names on the team sheet, but Hjelde put in a great performance against Sheffield Wednesday a couple of weeks ago and has become increasingly important of late.
Hjelde turned down a move in January, and it’s looked like a good decision for Sunderland as the Norwegian defender is now valuable cover at the back.
This injury doesn’t really impact the starting lineup this weekend, but it does make the bench a lot weaker, and you never know when you’ll need that cover in a game.
Hopefully, Hjelde will only miss the one match and can get back into the action after the international break for those crucial, final eight games.