Has Reece James been handed chance to save his Sunderland career?

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Reece James has played just two League One games for Sunderland since he arrived at the Stadium of Light from Wigan Athletic.

Reece James appears to be already fighting for his future at Sunderland.

The 24-year-old left-back arrived at the Stadium of Light on a free transfer from Wigan Athletic over the summer, but the injury problems that have dogged him in recent seasons have so far limited his impact on Wearside.

James has started two League One fixtures and tumbled down the pecking order thanks to the fine form of Bryan Oviedo and the rise of youngster Denver Hume. But the former Manchester United man has just been handed the perfect opportunity to get his place back.

Thanks to a moment of baffling ill-discipline from Oviedo, he will be absent for the next three games. The Costa Rica international was sent off in Tuesday’s 2-2 draw at home to Peterborough United thanks to a stupid kick out at Marcus Maddison.

Hume, meanwhile, is set to be out until the end of November thanks to an ill-timed injury.

James could be given a run in the team and this is an opportunity he simply cannot waste. After already losing his place this season, he cannot let history repeat itself, particularly as his contract at Sunderland only runs until the summer of 2019.