Sunderland may have moved into an automatic promotion spot with a 1-1 draw against Burton Albion last night, but it is not all good news for Black Cats manager Jack Ross.

Ross had to do without winger Aiden McGeady last night, with the 33-year-old looking like he will not be available for the weekend also, as reported in the Sunderland Echo.

McGeady is only considered a possible by Ross for the visit of Coventry at the weekend, having failed to shake off an impact injury he sustained in the win over Accrington last week.

So how crucial is McGeady to Sunderland's promotion hopes?

We discuss........

Gary Hutchinson

“No, he isn’t.

“Nobody is central to their hopes. They’ve got a big squad and can cover most eventualities.

“He’s creative, but Gooch, Morgan and Max Power can all deputise.

“He’s good player, but he’s not essential.”

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Jacob Potter

"He’s crucial to their promotion hopes.

"Sunderland looked void of any creative threat going forward in their draw with Burton Albion yesterday and they’ll need McGeady back ASAP.

"The longer he is out, the more confident Barnsley will get as they chase Jack Ross’ side down for an automatic promotion place."

George Harbey

"He's so important to them, so it could be a massive blow if he’s out for a lengthy spell.

"I think he’s probably the best player to appear in League One for many years, in terms of his quality and class on the ball.

"Sunderland are incredibly lucky to have a player of his ability on their books, but as they look to take advantage with a game in hand over the next few weeks, they need him available."