Regis Le Bris shares new Patrick Roberts injury update after Sunderland blow
Patrick Roberts was forced off early with a new injury as Sunderland beat Cardiff 2-1 on Saturday.
Eliezer Mayenda continued his strong form in front of goal to open the scoring after just two minutes, but Cardiff equalised just before half-time through Isaak Davies.
Sunderland went on to clinch victory thanks to defender Chris Mepham’s goal in the 77th minute.
The Mackems have now done the double over Cardiff, who they also beat 2-0 on the opening day of the season back in August to solidify fourth spot in the Championship.
Roberts in new injury blow for Sunderland
The Mackems faithful will have felt concerned when Roberts had to leave the action through injury after just 24 minutes, and was replaced by sought-after star Chris Rigg.
Roberts has divided opinion among Sunderland supporters this term, but he assisted Mayenda’s opening goal on 8 March to get things rolling.
| Patrick Roberts stats | 2024/25 Championship |
| Appearances | 35 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 6 |
Following his side’s victory over Cardiff, Regis Le Bris thankfully told the Sunderland Echo that Roberts’ injury was not as serious as it looked: “It was more of a precaution (to sub him off) than a serious injury.”
However, the Sunderland boss delivered less positive news regarding Salis Abdul Samed: “Salis is struggling with his calf so we will have to wait until after the international break to have him back in the team.”
Abdul Samed did not feature in the Mackems matchday squad for the Cardiff win, although he was an unused substitute during recent encounters with both Hull and Sheffield Wednesday.
Abdul Samed has been a disappointing addition for Sunderland
Last season, Abdul Samed registered 27 Ligue 1 appearances for Lens, and even made six outings in the Champions League, so Sunderland supporters would have been excited when their club acquired his services on loan last summer.
However, amid injury struggles, he has faced a lack of game time in the Championship and has been able to make just six appearances and two starts in the second tier this term.
The Mackems will have expected a strong impact from the midfielder who played in both the Champions League and the Europa League last season, but he has not been able to deliver the goods.
The Stadium of Light faithful would have been pleased to see Abbul Samed named in the starting 11 against Plymouth and Watford on 25 January and 8th February respectively.
However, he has since encountered further injury problems which will frustrate Le Bris and Sunderland supporters alike.
On the other hand, it is brilliant that Roberts may be fine moving forward as he clearly remains a favourite under Le Bris on the wing.