Sunderland handed Roefs boost in training as Spurs confirm Kudus setback | OneFootball

Sunderland have a lift as Robin Roefs was back in training at the Academy of Light ahead of Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Spurs. The visitors, in Roberto De Zerbi’s first match in charge, are dealing with a Mohammed Kudus setback.

Roefs has been out since the 1-1 draw with Bournemouth in February with a hamstring problem and did not join the Netherlands in the international break. It is not yet clear if he will be fully fit for Sunday, though that has been the target. Spurs said in a statement that Kudus has had a setback in his recovery from a significant quad injury and will require further specialist review, with surgery possible.

Sunderland posted images from a session showing Roefs involved. Reinildo and Enzo Le Fée were also pictured and are set for greater involvement after cameos against Newcastle United before the break. Nordi Mukiele trained too, having been an unused substitute in the Tyne-Wear derby win on his comeback from a calf issue.

Melker Ellborg has started steadily since joining from Malmo in January, but Roefs’ availability would be a major boost for the run-in.

Dan Ballard remains a major doubt with a hamstring injury. The game is expected to come too soon for wingers Bertrand Traoré, Nilson Angulo, Romaine Mundle and Jocelin Ta Bi, though Angulo has resumed some individual work on the Academy of Light pitches.

Kudus had hoped to return at the Stadium of Light, but the extent of his issue is not yet clear and there are concerns he may miss the rest of the campaign. Spurs are one point above the bottom three. Both head coaches are due to speak on Friday afternoon, when further injury updates are expected.

Source: Sunderland Echo