Sunderland manager Jack Ross has delivered a mixed update on the status of Sunderland's injured players as the new League One season draws closer.

Ross revealed to the official site that the Black Cats could be without Reece James for the opener as the left-back faces weeks out, although there was more positive news on Alim Ozturk and Lee Cattermole.

"Reece suffered a reoccurrence of a groin injury on Monday. It happened towards the end of training and means it’ll probably be a couple of weeks [before he's back]."

"Lee’s [absence] was due to a straightforward knock from Saturday, and he should be fine for the trip to St Mirren. All being well, Alim should also be fine for Saturday."

As well as that, there was good news on the fitness of goalkeeper Jon McLaughlin who is fully fit as the Wearside outfit gear up for their fourth pre-season friendly against the managers former club this weekend.

Sunderland begin their campaign in the third tier against Charlton on August 4.

The Verdict

Losing James is a blow to Ross and for the player himself as missing pre-season can set you back a lot when the competitive actions starts.

However, on the whole the news isn't too bad with Ozturk and Cattermole set to return, players who could potentially be key men under Ross.

Now, it's about keeping the players fit and building up that sharpness as the opener isn't too far away at all.

Thoughts, Sunderland fans? Let us know in the comments below.