Both Régis Le Bris and Pep Guardiola have some significant absentees as Sunderland prepare to face Manchester City on Saturday, though both are nearing having a full squad to select from.
Here, we bring you all the confirmed team and injury news ahead of the game...
A very significant absence for the hosts. Still recovering from a hamstring injury and Pep Guardiola has confirmed that the midfielder is improving but not yet fit enough to face Sunderland.
1. Rodri - out
A very significant absence for the hosts. Still recovering from a hamstring injury and Pep Guardiola has confirmed that the midfielder is improving but not yet fit enough to face Sunderland. | Getty Images
Very close to a return having completed 90 minutes for the U21s twice over the last fortnight. Seems unlikely to be involved here given the current depth of Le Bris's defensive options - but should be ready to come into the squad during AFCON.
2. Dennis Cirkin - doubt
Very close to a return having completed 90 minutes for the U21s twice over the last fortnight. Seems unlikely to be involved here given the current depth of Le Bris's defensive options - but should be ready to come into the squad during AFCON. | Getty Images
Diarra is not yet ready to return from groin surgery, though Le Bris has said he is on track in his recovery. Diarra had hoped to face Newcastle United next weekend before representing Senegal at AFCON - time will tell if that proves to be the case.
3. Habib Diarra - out
Diarra is not yet ready to return from groin surgery, though Le Bris has said he is on track in his recovery. Diarra had hoped to face Newcastle United next weekend before representing Senegal at AFCON - time will tell if that proves to be the case. | Sunderland's Habib Diarra. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
The experienced midfielder is a long-term absentee with an ankle injury and isn't expected to return until some time in the new year.
4. Mateo Kovacic - out
The experienced midfielder is a long-term absentee with an ankle injury and isn't expected to return until some time in the new year. Photo: Justin Setterfield