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Lee Cattermole will have to fight to get back into Sunderland’s starting XI

Ian Horrocks/Sunderland AFC via Getty Images
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Sunderland midfielder Lee Cattermole is currently recovering from an ankle injury.

Lee Cattermole celebrates with his team-mates after scoring the opening goal during the Sky Bet League One match between Coventry City and Sunderland at The Ricoh Arena on September 29,...

Sunderland star Lee Cattermole has impressed so far. The midfielder has completed a remarkable U-turn, from being somewhat of a villain among Wearside supporters in recent seasons to winning back his fan-favourite status.

The longest serving player in Sunderland’s squad has been a big part of the success on Wearside this term, but a recent ankle injury he picked up in training has hindered his progress.

Cattermole has been effective in both defence and attack this term, acting as the linchpin in front of the Sunderland back four – but then also bagging three goals and two assists.

And despite Cattermole impressing this term, his short-term injury has given the likes of summer arrival O’Nien a chance in midfield and the former Wycombe Wanderers man has taken it with both hands.

Luke O'Nien of Sunderland celebrates scoring the fourth goal during the Sky Bet League One match between Sunderland and Barnsley at Stadium of Light on November 27, 2018 in Sunderland,...

O’Nien scored the decisive goal in Sunderland’s 4-2 win over Barnsley on Tuesday night, whilst Max Power was also extremely effective in front of the back four. Both men played a huge role in making it 14 games unbeaten for the hosts.

With the hectic winter schedule just around the corner, Cattermole will certainly be playing his part once he recovers from his injury – but the 30-year-old might have a hard job winning back his regular slot, with his teammates performing brilliantly in his absence.

Lee Cattermole of Sunderland (L) checks out the Madejski Stadium pitch before the Sky Bet Championship match between Reading and Sunderland at Madejski Stadium on April 14, 2018 in Reading,...