Mark Robins has issued a Coventry City injury update ahead of his side’s clash with Sunderland.

The Sky Blues start their Championship campaign on Sunday with the visit of Alex Neil’s side.

Fortunately, Sunday will arrive just on time for Martyn Waghorn and Kasey Palmer, who are both in contention for a return to action.

The pair missed the club’s final pre-season friendly last week against Portsmouth.

But both have returned to training in the time since so should be available for selection against the Black Cats.

However, club captain Liam Kelly will remain sidelined with an issue that will likely keep him out of action for a number of months.

“Kasey Palmer is back now, so we’re alright on that front and long may that continue," confirmed Robins, via the club’s official website.

“Martyn Waghorn has been out a few days. He had a calf issue, but thankfully there was no tear.

“He’s a senior professional that knows his body and it wasn’t right for him to continue to play.

"He’s had a few days out and some treatment and, hopefully, he’ll be cleared to train before Sunday.”

 

 

There are no other injury concerns in the squad going into Sunday’s game, giving Robins an almost entirely fit squad for the start of the season.

Coventry will be aiming to improve on their 12th place finish last season as they look to compete nearer the top of the second division table over the next year.

It has been a relatively stable summer for the club, with none of the team’s most prized assets departing going into the start of the new campaign.

The Verdict

Coventry have had a decent summer window if only because none of Gustavo Hamer, Viktor Gyokeres or Callum O’Hare have left.

This should allow Robins to build on the solid foundations that were laid last season.

Having Palmer fit will be a boost considering he is one of five new signings to arrive at the club this transfer window.

Waghorn has also proven to be a very useful squad player since his arrival at Coventry last season, playing 27 times in the league last season.