Sunderland team news vs Fulham – Regis Le Bris drops Dennis Cirkin injury update
Sunderland are set to travel to Craven Cottage on Saturday to face Fulham.
The Black Cats are aiming to continue their sensational form in what has been a fantastic return to the Premier League to date.
There is even increased speculation that Sunderland could qualify for Europe this season if they continue this run of form.
Despite this, Fulham actually go into the tie as favourites against Sunderland, despite the two sides having a contrasting campaign to date.
Now, ahead of the game, Regis Le Bris has confirmed that Dennis Cirkin is almost back from his injury.
Regis Le Bris provides injury update on Dennis Cirkin
Cirkin has been out of action for six months at Sunderland after suffering a severe wrist injury and complications with his knee.
The full-back was an integral part of the squad that oversaw promotion to the Premier League, but has yet to make an appearance this season.
Cirkin had been expected to return for Sunderland by the end of November; now Le Bris has confirmed that the full-back will be part of the Under-21s squad on Thursday and will look to play 90 minutes.
On top of this, Romaine Mundle and Leo Hjelde are also expected to get 45 minutes against Sporting’s academy side.
However, none of the trio will be fit for Fulham.
RLB confirms Cirkin will play 90 minutes for the U21s tonight against Sporting at the SoL.
— Phil Smith (@Phil__Smith) November 20, 2025
Mundle and Hjelde will play 45 minutes as they play first competitive football of the season.
None of the trio will be involved on Saturday.
Furthermore, Le Bris confirmed that Habib Diarra was progressing well with his rehab.
He said: “His rehab is going well, we just don’t want to rush the process. If it’s too early to restart with the national team and it could damage his health, we won’t take risks. But we’ll see [closer to the time].”
Sunderland have a solid record against Fulham
In recent times, Sunderland have commonly overcome Fulham.
While the Black Cats have not beaten the Cottagers in their last three meetings, Sunderland have only lost two of their last seven matches against the London side.
Saturday will be the first time the two clubs have met in the Premier League since 2014, with Sunderland winning the match 4-1 at Craven Cottage.
Now, Le Bris will be hoping these past performances can inspire his squad to once again pick up another impressive three points.
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