Sunderland suffer major injury blows ahead of Leeds United trip | OneFootball

Sunderland have been dealt a major setback before facing Leeds United, with goalkeeper Robin Roefs ruled out by a hamstring issue. January signing Melker Ellborg will make his full debut at Elland Road, with Simon Moore on the bench. The Swede has limited senior experience, though he impressed for Malmo in the Europa League earlier this season.

According to Sunderland Echo, it is a minor hamstring problem sustained while making a save at Bournemouth, and Le Bris hopes the absence will not be long.

In a further blow, Granit Xhaka is not in the starting XI and is named on the bench, a call that suggests workload management after a recent ankle injury.

The reshuffle means Luke O’Nien, 31, is set for his first Premier League start at right back, with Lutsharel Geertruida moving into holding midfield.

Nordi Mukiele, Brian Brobbey, Dennis Cirkin and Reinildo are also out, though the Black Cats are hopeful, at this stage, of having them back before the Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle United later this month.

Romaine Mundle has undergone hamstring surgery, leaving him in a battle to feature again this season. The timeline is put at roughly eight weeks, six to 10 depending on recovery, and it is not an easy period for the youngster after similar issues on the other hamstring, with medical, coaching staff and team-mates to stay closely involved.

Source: Sunderland Echo