Nilson Angulo injury clarified after Ecuador call-up, winger to return to Sunderland | OneFootball

Nilson Angulo’s injury status has been clarified, with the Sunderland winger called up by Ecuador despite a muscle problem, then set to return to Wearside to continue his recovery.

He was a late absentee for the 1-0 defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion on 14 March, after which head coach Regis Le Bris said Angulo’s lay-off might be around four to six weeks. His subsequent inclusion by Ecuador was criticised, with Bolavip describing the call-up as “completely surprising” and a “controversial move”.

Ecuador have friendlies against Morocco and the Netherlands this month, and Sebastián Beccacece initially named the 22-year-old despite his fitness issues.

Beccacece told reporters on Thursday that Angulo will now return to Sunderland to continue his rehabilitation from a muscle tear. Alongside midfielder Patrik Mercado of Independiente del Valle, he is expected to leave the national-team camp on Saturday and fly back to England.

The coach acknowledged the pair are significant losses, adding that the rest of his squad are available.

The report also noted Beccacece has taken similar selection decisions in the past, and stated Angulo is an “undisputed starter” for Ecuador when fit and “a key attacking option”.

Source: Sunderland Echo