Cattermole could return for Black Cats after injury

Posted Friday, February 15, 2019 by PA

Lee Cattermole could return as Sunderland attempt to rekindle their League One promotion drive when Accrington arrive at the Stadium of Light on Friday night.

Experienced midfielder Cattermole missed the 1-0 victory over Wimbledon and the 1-1 draws with Oxford and Blackpool which have followed it because of an ankle injury, but is fit to return this weekend.

Max Power is also available once again after missing the Blackpool game in midweek as his partner gave birth.

Bryan Oviedo has returned to training after being sidelined since last month with a calf problem, although the game may come too soon for him, while Duncan Watmore will not be involved as the club manages his return from long-term injury, and Glenn Loovens and Donald Love are still out.

Stanley boss John Coleman could shuffle his pack as he attempts to end a run of five games without a goal in all competitions.

His side last scored in the league on Boxing Day and have slid down the table from ninth to 16th place as a result.

Midfielder Dan Barlaser returned from suspension in last Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at Scunthorpe, but there was no place in the squad for defender Ross Sykes, who limped off at Gillingham during the previous game.

Striker Okera Simmonds is yet to make his debut after joining the club following his release by Blackburn.