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Sunderland Boosted by O’Nien Return as Nottingham Forest Sweat on Key Injuries Ahead of Premier League Clash
Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris has confirmed that Luke O’Nien is back in full training and could be in contention to feature when the Black Cats resume their Premier League campaign away to Nottingham Forest this weekend.
O’Nien has been sidelined since dislocating his shoulder during the early stages of Sunderland’s play-off final victory over Sheffield United at Wembley. His recovery offers timely relief for Le Bris, who must shuffle his defensive options following Reinildo’s three-match suspension for violent conduct.
The Sunderland boss suggested that Arthur Masuaku could be handed a start or that Dan Ballard might be recalled with tactical adjustments elsewhere in defence. He also highlighted the flexibility of Lutsharel Geertruida, capable of playing across the backline. Le Bris stressed that Sunderland’s recruitment strategy deliberately built in versatility, giving him the confidence to adapt depending on opposition and match dynamics.
Injuries still limit Sunderland’s defensive depth, with Dennis Cirkin, Leo Hjelde, Aji Alese and Romaine Mundle all unavailable.
Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest have fresh fitness concerns after their Europa League draw with Real Betis. Midfielder Douglas Luiz, who arrived on loan from Juventus in the summer, was substituted at half-time with hamstring tightness. While Ange Postecoglou downplayed the severity, Luiz remains a doubt for Saturday’s clash.
Defender Nikola Milenković also left the field late in the Betis match, though Postecoglou confirmed it was cramp rather than injury. Murillo, however, is still struggling for full fitness after missing the last two games and did not feature midweek.
With Sunderland regaining a defensive leader and Forest juggling injury doubts, Saturday’s encounter at the City Ground is shaping up as a test of squad depth for both sides.
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