Sunderland winger Duncan Watmore has been ruled out for the season after sustaining an ankle injury against Wycombe Wanderers a fortnight ago.

The 25-year-old only returned to first-team action in December, after being out of action for nearly 13 months with a cruciate ligament injury.

But speaking to the club's official media ahead of his side's Checkatrade Trophy final clash with Portsmouth this weekend, Black Cats manager Jack Ross has confirmed that the winger will miss the rest of the season with yet another injury.

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With Sunderland sitting within touching distance of the automatic promotion places in League One, this is a very untimely blow indeed.

Here, we discuss how big of a blow it actually is...

George Harbey

"You've got to feel for him.

"He was starting to remind everyone what a fantastic player he really is, but has been so unlucky to sustain yet another injury.

"I don't think it'll affect Sunderland's promotion hopes too much, mind.

"They have so many attacking options at the club and can cope without Watmore."

Chris Gallagher

"It's a very big blow.

"You have to feel really sorry for Watmore though as he has been so unfortunate with injuries over the past few years and he can't seem to catch a break.

"Jack Ross does have options to step in but Watmore brings a real energy and drive to the team that will be hard to replace."

Jacob Potter

"It's a huge blow for Jack Ross' side.

"Watmore might not have been at his best this season, but he could have played a crucial role in their push for promotion.

"He's been desperately unlucky with injuries in recent years.

"His absence could cost them promotion."