Blackpool have been dealt another injury blow after Luke Garbutt picked up a hamstring injury in the Tangerines' draw with Hull City last week. Michael Appleton's side are struggling at the foot of the Championship, second bottom of the table and two points adrift of safety.
The Seasiders haven't won in the league since a 2-1 win over Coventry City back in October, a winless run of eight games. Appleton's side have shown signs of fighting spirit, with three draws on the bounce.
The Tangerines will welcome Jordan Thorniley back from suspension to face Sunderland, but the Blackpool boss isn't expecting any other players to return. Kevin Stewart, Lewis Fiorini, Keshi Anderson, Liam Bridcutt, Theo Corbeanu and Jordan Gabriel, who was linked with a move to Sunderland last summer, remain sidelined for the Seasiders.
READ MORE: Sunderland head into the New Year full of optimism as Tony Mowbray's decisions pay off at Wigan
Blackpool shot stopper Chris Maxwell took part in the warm-up ahead of taking on Sheffield United, having been out with a groin injury since the Cardiff City clash, but he looks set to sit out again.
Full-back Garbutt made way at half-time in the draw at Hull City, with Appleton confirming he'll miss three weeks worth of action. He told Lancs Live said: "Jordan will be the only one coming back in. Luke Garbutt has got a hamstring injury which will keep him out for about three weeks.”
READ NEXT:
- Tony Mowbray explains his attacking dilemma as the goals flow for Sunderland
- Sunderland's Tony Mowbray admits his Alex Pritchard decision backfired, as he gives injury update
- Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray details his first-half frustration on way to big win at Wigan
- Sunderland player ratings as Patrick Roberts is among the stars in convincing victory at Wigan
- Sunderland climb into Championship play-off places after Wigan Athletic rout
