Sunderland’s Habib Diarra ruled out until December after groin surgery | OneFootball

Sunderland have been dealt a setback after midfielder Habib Diarra was ruled out until December following groin surgery.

The 21-year-old sustained the injury during training in the build-up to the club’s 1-1 draw with Aston Villa on Sunday.

He subsequently underwent a procedure on Monday, with the Black Cats confirming that his rehabilitation will take place at the Academy of Light.

Diarra’s absence is a blow for both Sunderland and Senegal. The midfielder will miss the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against South Sudan and Mauritania.

His return is expected towards the end of the calendar year, which would allow him to rejoin club and country in the busy winter schedule.

Signed from Ligue 1 outfit Strasbourg for a club-record fee in July, Diarra has quickly become an important figure in Regis Le Bris’ midfield.

He started each of Sunderland’s opening four Premier League matches and registered an assist in the 2-1 win over Brentford on August 30.

Chris Rigg took his place in the starting XI against Villa. He is pushing for opportunities after breaking into the senior squad.

Sunderland showed their resilience by earning a point despite playing most of the match with ten men following a first-half red card.

Sunderland have now collected seven points from their first five league games, winning twice since their return to the top flight.Their early form has drawn praise, with Le Bris insisting his side will not simply make up the numbers after promotion.

He will now need to adjust his midfield options ahead of Saturday’s trip to Nottingham Forest at the City Ground. Rigg could retain his place, while other members of the squad may be asked to shoulder extra responsibility in central areas.