Sunderland manager Jack Ross has praised Duncan Watmore for the resilience that he demonstrated to overcome two serious injuries.

The winger has only featured once for the Black Cats this season and recently suffered a setback to his rehabilitation from a thigh problem (via ChronicleLive).

Despite being earmarked for a return to action against Burnley in the Carabao Cup last month, Watmore was forced to watch on from the sidelines after picking up a knock in training.

Whilst the Black Cats were able to secure an impressive victory over the Clarets in his absence, their unbeaten start to the 2019/20 campaign was brought to an end by Peterborough United last weekend.

Since suffering knee ligament damage in 2016, Watmore has failed to make more than three consecutive league starts for Sunderland.

The winger, who damaged the same knee a year after his initial setback, was limited to 16 appearances last season as the Black Cats narrowly missed out on promotion to the Championship.

Speaking to ChronicleLive about the 25-year-old's current issue, Ross said: "I'd imagine he'll miss two to three weeks again at least and then we'll go from there.

"It's difficult for him because it's been very stop-start for him for a long time."

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The Sunderland boss later added: "It's a difficult part of the industry.

"When you have the two serious (injuries), that's a challenge but I think he's come through that.

"Then, of course, if you pick up other injuries that maybe ordinarily wouldn't affect you as much it is difficult."

"I speak to him a lot but if truth be told you can assist players and we do that but they have to deal with the challenges that fall their way in their own way."

Sunderland will be looking to get back to winning ways in League One when they head to the Crown Ground on September 14th to face Accrington Stanley.

The Verdict

Although Watmore's latest injury is not as serious as his previous issues, it will still be a worry for Ross who has yet to see the best of the winger during his time in charge at the Stadium of Light.

Whilst the former Altrincham man unquestionably possesses a great deal of talent, it may be time for Sunderland to consider moving him on if he cannot make a return to fitness.

With his current deal set to expire at the end of the season, Watmore may find that a fresh start at a new club could be beneficial for his career.