Sunderland star major doubt for play-off final vs Sheffield United
Sunderland are well underway in preparations for their Championship play-off final against Sheffield United.
The Black Cats travel to Wembley on Saturday (May 24) to face the Blades, looking to end an eight-year absence from the Premier League.
Regis Le Bris’ side advanced to the London showpiece by defeating Coventry City 3-2 on aggregate in the semi-final.
Romaine Mundle emerges as injury doubt for Wembley
Le Bris may have to make do without one of his key players at Wembley, though, amid a new injury update that has emerged.
The Sunderland Echo (20 May) reports that winger Romaine Mundle has emerged as a significant doubt for the play-off final.
The winger did not train with the rest of the Sunderland squad in the days after their victory over Coventry.
Mundle made his return from injury in the semi-final, but his post-match recovery has taken longer than usual.
On the right, Patrick Roberts is also a concern for Wembley on Saturday as he is nursing a calf issue.
Roberts played 95 minutes against Coventry at the Stadium of Light, but is understood to have been feeling his calf towards the end of normal time.
Sunderland’s medical staff will monitor the winger closely in the coming days, but the 28-year-old is expected to be available for Saturday’s final.
Enzo Le Fee could remain on left-wing for Wembley
The injury concern of Mundle could see Enzo Le Fee start on the wing at Wembley.
The Frenchman started on the left wing in both legs of the semi-final, grabbing an assist in both games, including assisting Dan Ballard’s winner in the second leg.
Starting Le Fee on the wing would likely see Le Bris continue to use the 4-4-2 system he deployed against Coventry.
Should Mundle be assessed as fit to play, Le Fee would likely be moved back into the middle, whether at central midfielder or in a more attacking role.
If the Frenchman is to return to attacking midfield, that would likely see one of Wilson Isidor or Eliezer Mayenda drop to the bench.
Although it would be harsh on either striker to be left on the bench for the final, given their performance in the first leg, Sunderland did look more balanced once Mundle came on for Isidor, which could be crucial against a strong Sheffield United side.