Jack Ross has admitted he's to blame for the troubles that have plagued big-money signing Charlie Wyke this season.

The former Bradford City striker cost the Black Cats £1m in the summer, but has been limited to just a couple of appearances after suffering an injury nightmare. He struggled for fitness pre-season, missing the start of the campaign, before being stretched off not long after his return.

Former St Mirren boss Ross has admitted he feels responsible for the troubles faced by Wyke as he looks set to return to first team action soon.

“I take responsibility, we rushed him back too quickly,” Ross told the Chronicle Live “It didn’t impact on him being re-injured, it was just his general fitness and sharpness. That was my fault."

“This time we have to be more measured with him and he feels a lot better because of that. When in a couple of weeks’ time he’s available for games I think you’ll see a different player.”

In his absence Josh Maja has staked a claim for a starring role, with Chris Maguire and Jerome Sinclair also impressing when given a chance to start. However, with £1m invested in Wyke, his return will be a massive boost for everyone at the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland are currently second in League One, well placed for a title assault and an immediate return to the second tier.

The Verdict

Wyke did seem to come back quickly and although Ross says it didn't impact on his being injured a second time, I wouldn't be so sure. If he wasn't quite as sharp or ready, could he have been more susceptible to the injury?

Either way, it matters little. He'll soon be back in action for the Black Cats and that can only be good news for Ross and Sunderland.