Injury ‘could hamper’ Sunderland defender Nordi Mukiele’s France World Cup hopes | OneFootball

L’Equipe reports that Sunderland defender Nordi Mukiele’s calf injury could hamper his chances of forcing a France World Cup call this summer. The 28-year-old has been sidelined for weeks and has not featured since the 3-1 home defeat by Fulham.

He is now in a race to be available for Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle United. The summer signing has been a mainstay under Regis Le Bris, either at right-back or in central defence.

Le Bris said Mukiele is improving and that a decision will be taken next week, stressing that risking him for Newcastle might lead to a longer absence and would not make sense. He added that the staff will try to manage the situation carefully.

The report says Didier Deschamps faces a selection puzzle at full-back, with preferred option Barcelona defender Jules Kounde unavailable for this month’s internationals. In that context, Mukiele might have come back into contention for a first call-up since 2021, but his injury diminishes that prospect.

It also indicates Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu could make the squad for friendlies against Brazil and Colombia. With OGC Nice veteran Jonathan Clauss seemingly out of favour, Mukiele may still come into consideration for this summer’s North American World Cup if others suffer setbacks, though missing this window does not help.

Source: Sunderland Echo