Sunderland have a huge game coming this weekend as they face Sheffield United in the play-off final. It has been an excellent season for SAFC, who have exceeded expectations with their 4th-place finish.
The Black Cats secured their spot at Wembley in dramatic fashion with Dan Ballard’s header in the 122nd minute. After a poor performance in the second leg against Coventry City, the tide seemed to change when Romaine Mundle returned from injury in extra time.
Mundle’s return has left most Sunderland fans wanting him to start at Wembley, but those hopes appear to be dashed. The Sunderland Echo are reporting that Mundle is a major doubt for Saturday’s clash.
The winger is yet to train since the semi-final victory last Tuesday, leaving his involvement up in the air. They have suggested that he could easily be involved in the coming days as he steps up his training.
SAFC will have a similar squad available to them as they did in the semi-finals. Aji Alese had a chance of returning for the play-offs, but that does not appear to be the case amid his continued absence.
Patrick Roberts is also being monitored as he continues to manage a calf issue, playing the majority of both legs despite that injury.
Le Fee out wide again?
Enzo Le Fee was the standout signing of the Championship in the January window. However, we are yet to see him at his very best in a Sunderland shirt with him having to play out of position.
Due to injuries picked up by both Le Fee and Mundle, the pair had not played together until last Tuesday’s games. It makes for a real shame for SAFC, who would likely have been much more of a force going forward with the pair fit and firing.
Le Fee’s quality has still been evident when he’s been on the pitch. The two assists he picked up across the two games against Coventry could be the difference for them come Saturday evening.
A last dance for Watson?
Mundle’s injury could open the door for one final showing for Tommy Watson. Watson’s future is already sorted with a move to Brighton at the end of the season.
This move has left a sour taste in the mouth of SAFC fans who feel he’s jumped ship very quickly.
However, if he scores a goal to send them to the Premier League, then he will surely be forgiven.
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