Late fitness calls expected for several Sunderland stars as Tyne-Wear clash looms with medical staff set to make final decisions
Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris is facing a tense wait over multiple injury concerns ahead of Sunday’s high-stakes Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle United.
The Black Cats head into the clash in a relatively comfortable position, having reached the 40-point mark with eight games remaining – a total that typically ensures Premier League survival.
That milestone allows Sunderland to approach the derby with a degree of freedom, but the importance of the fixture remains undiminished, especially with confidence in the bag after their 1-0 win in the reverse meeting earlier this season.
Their opponents, meanwhile, arrive in mixed form. Newcastle have won their last two league matches and sit ninth, still within touching distance of European qualification places.
However, confidence may have taken a hit following their 7-2 thrashing at the hands of FC Barcelona in the Champions League.
Le Bris confirmed several absentees will not feature this weekend, limiting his options as he prepares for one of the most emotionally charged fixtures of the season.
“Jocelin [Ta Bi], Nilson, Bertrand [Traore] and Romaine [Mundle] will definitely be out,” he said.
There are also concerns surrounding other members of the squad, with the Sunderland boss emphasising caution over any potential risks.
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“For the others, we will have a late assessment because they are working hard to get ready for this fixture, which is really important to us but it will be a pure medical decision because we will not take any medical risks.”
Nordi Mukiele among key doubts for derby
There are still doubts over Nordi Mukiele and Robin Roefs. The French defender has missed the last three league games with a calf injury, while the Dutch goalkeeper has missed the last two with a hamstring problem.
Mukiele has been a cornerstone of Sunderland’s defensive solidity, bringing experience and physical presence since arriving in the summer. Alongside him, Roefs is also being monitored closely as part of the late fitness checks.
“For the others, we will have a late assessment because they are working hard to get ready for this fixture, which is really important to us but it will be a pure medical decision because we will not take any medical risks,” said Le Bris.
Le Bris also provided a brief update on Dan Ballard, who could yet play a role despite a recent issue.
“Discomfort in the hamstring zone, so we will see.”
Based on Le Bris’ quotes, Sunderland’s final team selection is likely to hinge on last-minute medical calls for one of the season’s most anticipated fixtures.
