Corry Evans is expected to be sidelined until between Christmas and the new year.
Tony Mowbray has discussed the latest injury concerns ahead of tomorrow’s Championship opener and has admitted that the midfielder is unlikely to return to action in 2022.
Sunderland have been without Evans since injuring his anterior cruciate ligament during the win over Middlesbrough in February and was quickly ruled out for the rest of the season.
However, the 33-year-old is likely to be the Black Cats’ latest return and could be set for another five months in the treatment room.
Evans’ absence remains a huge blow for Sunderland, with the captain playing a huge role in the first half of the previous campaign.
The Northern Ireland international made 24 appearances in the Championship last season, with his leadership proving pivotal in an otherwise very young squad.
Evans is joined by Aji Alese, Ross Stewart, Jay Matete and Elliot Embleton as long-term absentees, while the latter could potentially return in a couple of weeks.
Do Sunderland need to bring in some back-up for Corry Evans?
With Corry Evans potentially missing half of the new campaign, Sunderland could really do with bringing in a similar figure while he is unavailable.
Pierre Ekwah has done a brilliant job at filling in for his teammate, however he doesn’t bring quite the same qualities as the experienced Evans does.
Whether it be a free transfer or a loan deal, Tony Mowbray should look at bringing in some talented cover to keep the midfield ticking.