Conor McLaughlin is set for another spell on the sidelines after needing a painkilling injection in the wake of his hernia operation.
McLaughlin was out of action for around a month after undergoing surgery, but returned in mid-February.
But he is still suffering some discomfort and he was absent for Sunderland’s win against Swindon Town tonigh.
Black Cats boss Lee Johnson said: “Conor needs an injection in the area where he had the hernia operation, so it’s more than likely he will be out again.”
Lynden Gooch went off in the second half against the Robins with a calf problem and Johnson is hoping that does not turn out to be a serious issue.
He added: “Goochy just felt his calf, and hopefully it won’t be too bad.”
Grant Leadbitter dislocated his shoulder in Saturday’s draw at Crewe Alexandra and, while he was at the Stadium of Light to support the team against Swindon, his arm was in a sling.
The midfielder is due to see a specialist tomorrow, and that should give Sunderland an idea of how long he is likely to be out of action.
Johnson said: “We’ll find out with Grant tomorrow. He’s going to see the specialist.
“It was a bad one, but he’s very strong-minded that he wants to get back as quickly as he can and risk it, but we’ll have to see.”
