Sunderland have announced a return to the first team for two defenders, something that should boost their fading hopes of Championship survival.

Jake Clarke-Salter, the on loan Chelsea defender dismissed in his last two outings, is once again available for selection after his most recent two-match ban.

Also, Lamine Kone missed Monday’s defeat to Sheffield Wednesday thanks to a groin injury, but he is also expected to be involved after returning to training this week.

Coleman is hoping the player's return might give the squad a lift, especially after an encouraging weekend in which they beat Derby County 4-1. He's still retaining hope of a great escape, starting at Elland Road this Saturday.

“Lamine Kone trained today and has had a good recovery from the weekend," manager Chris Coleman told safc.com. "His chances (to play Saturday) should be okay. On Monday, the fans clapped the lads off because they gave a lot, and we have to give everything again on Saturday. Eight points is a lot with six games to play, but it's been done before and we have to keep doing what we've done in the last two games.”

Clarke-Slater has played eight times for Sunderland this season, but lasted just 24 minutes of the 3-3 draw with Middlesbrough before being sent off. He then got an hour against Preston before once again seeing red.

The Verdict

Kone has the potential to be a crucial player for the Black Cats, but I'm not sure I'd be going with Clarke-Salter after his two red cards recently. Sunderland need eleven men on the field, all disciplined and focused, fighting hard but fair. The youngster hasn't shown the right temperament and that is going to be crucial if their is hope of a great escape.

Which their isn't.