Sunderland fans could be forgiven for forgetting the name of Duncan Watmore.

The player has just six appearances to his name this season, a continuation of two-years ruined by injury.

Having had 10-months out last season after injuring his left knee he suffered further cruciate knee ligament  damage for the second time in the space of a year during the 2-2 draw with Millwall.

His injury nightmare has restricted him to just five starts in 15 months.

"You have to stay patient with it, that is the main battle with this injury, the staying patient side," Watmore told the Sunderland Echo.

"I feel good but I can't rush it. You can always feel sorry for yourself, why did it happen again and all that but what is the point? I am still playing football for a living and still at Sunderland Football Club, I am in a very fortunate position so there is no point feeling sorry for myself."

Watmore joined the Black Cats in 2014 from non-league Altrincham and later enjoyed a spell on loan at Scottish Premier League side Hibernian. He also represented England at U20 and U21 level, before the injury curse struck.

Manager Chris Coleman, also speaking to the Echo, wishes he had Watmore available for the season run in.

"Duncan is a cracking kid, he really is a great boy. What would you give to have him with us? I’m not just talking about his ability but as a person too, he is a really good person; good kid. Sadly, sometimes that is how it works."

The Verdict

You have to feel sorry for Watmore, not one serious injury but two within such a short space of time. His character will be tested to the extreme now, his ability not just to bounce back physically, but also mentally. It is a huge ask and when he does finally resume training he could well be a League One striker. One thing is for sure, he'll be a huge asset at that level if he can return as sharp as he was.