Sunderland are due to face Everton in Premier League action later this evening.
David Moyes has told the Chronicle that Lee Cattermole will miss out on playing for Sunderland against Everton later this evening.
Cattermole is yet to make an appearance this term, but he is edging closer to full fitness.
The midfielder has been out with a double hernia, but he has returned to training in recent weeks, leading to suggestions that he could start against Everton.
However, Moyes insists that he does not want to rush Cattermole back to fitness – and has stated that he will remain on the sidelines later this evening.
“It’s too early for Lee,” Moyes explained, ahead of Sunderland’s match against Everton. “I think he needs to get some minutes. We don’t want to be flogging him.”
Cattermole’s absence has provided an opportunity for some other members of Sunderland’s squad to stake their claim for a first-team place, with youngster Lynden Gooch one of the players to benefit.
Gooch has made four appearances for Sunderland this term, and the 20-year-old has impressed.
Whether he will start for Sunderland this evening remains to be seen, as Moyes’ side are under pressure to pick up the three points.
The Black Cats are yet to pick up a victory in the Premier League, and they will be desperate to beat Everton – to ensure that they start moving up the standings.
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