Régis Le Bris hands Sunderland Xhaka boost as Reinildo faces lay-off and Traoré closes in | OneFootball

Granit Xhaka is back in contention for Sunderland’s trip to Fulham on Sunday, while Reinildo faces a spell out with a knee issue and Bertrand Traoré edges closer to fitness. Régis Le Bris set out the updates on Friday.

According to Sunderland Echo, Reinildo suffered the injury in the 1-0 home defeat to Liverpool, with initial fears of serious damage eased by a second opinion recommending rest. He will still miss a busy run, and Dennis Cirkin is in line to start after impressing in the FA Cup win over Oxford United.

Le Bris said Xhaka had trained almost fully this week and is available for selection. Traoré is expected to rejoin the group next week and might be available soon after.

Reinildo is the only new absentee and will miss three or four weeks, potentially returning after Brighton and in time for the Newcastle game. Sunderland are hopeful at this stage that he will be back for the Tyne-Wear derby next month.

Nordi Mukiele is fit but has stepped back from long-throw duties due to a hand problem, with Trai Hume taking them when required. Le Bris hopes Mukiele can resume those responsibilities soon.

Source: Sunderland Echo