Traore and Masuaku out for ‘four to six weeks’ as Crystal Palace visit looms | OneFootball

According to Sunderland Echo, Sunderland have confirmed Bertrand Traore and Arthur Masuaku are expected to miss four to six weeks after injuries sustained at AFCON.

The pair featured for Burkina Faso and DR Congo in Morocco and exited in the round of 16. After returning to Wearside, both now face a spell on the sidelines.

There is better news for the weekend, with Noah Sadiki available and Reinildo Mandava also fit after making his final appearances for Mozambique before announcing his retirement this week. Both are expected to be involved when Crystal Palace visit in the Premier League.

Record signing Habib Diarra and winger Chemsdine Talbi remain on international duty with Senegal, who meet Morocco in Sunday’s final after both players progressed from Wednesday’s semi-finals.

Masuaku’s situation remains uncertain, with only four appearances this season and 127 minutes in the league. He has been linked with a move, with Standard Liege mentioned as a possible destination.

Head coach Regis Le Bris said last month that the backline is particularly competitive, that Masuaku has had limited opportunities but remains valued, and that any mid-season exit would be discussed only if the club’s and player’s plans align. A lay-off of this length reduces the chances of a departure before the 2 February deadline.

Source: Sunderland Echo