Jack Ross has claimed that it isn't going to be straightforward to replace Chris Maguire, with the striker currently ruled out for up to two months with a broken fibula.

The Black Cats face Bristol Rovers this weekend, having finally broken their run of draws with a 4-2 victory against Gillingham in midweek. Two penalties snatched the game away from the spirited Gills, but the win was tarnished by Maguire's injury.

He came off after less than quarter of an hour, replaced by Lynden Gooch, but former St Mirren boss Ross isn't going to be able to cover his absence easily this weekend.

“It’s not going to be straightforward for us [replacing him]," he told the Sunderland Echo.

“There’s not really another one in the squad that I would say is the same as Chris. With other forwards it’s probably a bit easier to compare them in terms of like for like. So it’s just about finding the right combinations."

Ross is however happy to have Duncan Watmore back, a player that at least offers options if not a straight replacement. Watmore has missed the last two matches through injury, more as a precaution after his recent comeback.

“Obviously having Duncan back fit changes things again because he helps us in a very different way. We’ve got options and I don’t think we have to change dramatically."

Another option is former academy player Gooch. He's been with Sunderland since his early teens and Ross felt he deputised well in the wake of Maguire's injury.

“I was pleased for Lynden coming on because he’s probably had his most challenging part of the season. Then obviously he’s had the change with his family circumstances as well. I was pleased with his contribution."

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The Verdict

It might not be easy to replace Maguire like for like, but Sunderland have options and plenty of them. Not only could Gooch or Watmore come in, but there's Kazaiah Sterling from Spurs who is on loan and as yet, hasn't featured prominently.

There's the potential for a reshuffle as well with perhaps Wyke playing deeper being Grigg. The Black Cats have a big squad and whilst Ross plays up to the injury. it's certainly not a crisis.