Lee Johnson has given an update on the fitness of his squad ahead of Saturdayâs trip to Plymouth Argyle.
The Head Coach inevitably spoke more about the defensive depletion of the squad, with numerous first-team defenders having been ruled out in recent weeks and months, and players brought into the void from positions elsewhere.
âItâs been difficult, of course. The boys have been fantastic being drafted into the defensive line,â Johnson said.
âLuke OâNien has been very good on the whole since moving into centre-half. There are a few areas to improve, but thatâs to be expected and is only natural when changing position as often as he has done.
Sunderland Under-23s 2-1 Reading Under-23s
Sunderland Under-23s sealed a fifth win in six games with victory over Reading Under-23s today.
First-half goals from Dan Neil and Josh Hawkes either side of Femi Azeezâs strike was enough to claim the win at the Academy of Light.
Remi Matthews and Jake Vokins both featured, with the latter playing a pre-planned 45 minutes, as he continues his comeback from Covid-19.
Captain Dan Neil was also in from the off, with top goalscorer Josh Hawkes supporting Will Harris up front.
Sunderland started bright and went close early on when Harris struck the inside of the post, after good work down the right from Stephen Wearne.
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Lee Johnson has given an update on several of his squadâs fitness levels as we head into Saturdayâs contest with Accrington Stanley at the Stadium of Light.
The Head Coach first discussed the potential of Aiden McGeady returning at the weekend, after missing Tuesdayâs draw at Hull City with foot swelling.
âI think I would rate him as a 50/50 chance,â Johnson claimed.
âItâs still very bruised, but at the same time itâs a superficial injury â not ligament or bone-related â and of course he wants to play.â
âIf he feels he can still hit a ball from 25 yards â hopefully into the top corner â then he can play.â