Sunderland will be hoping to get back to winning ways this weekend when they take on Gillingham in the FA Cup at the Stadium of Light. 

Phil Parkinson's side aren't in a good run of form heading into the game, as they only have one win in their last four games in all competitions.

So, the Sunderland supporters will be keen to see their team progress to the next round of the FA Cup, although Parkinson will be without a number of first team players for the game.

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Speaking in a pre-match press conference ahead of the game, the Sunderland boss issued a positive update on the progress that some members of his squad are making.

"Lynden Gooch has been out running today and been making progress. Charlie Wyke will hopefully be out on the grass next week.

But the former Bolton manager revealed that Elliot Embleton is set for a spell on the sidelines, and wasn't going to be drawn into making a decision on Lee Burge's fitness.

"Elliot Embleton is out for another three months. Lee Burge has been training this week, but we will see how he responds before making a decision."

Parkinson went on to reveal that Denver Hume is struggling in a race against time to fit for the game on Saturday, with the 21-year-old picking up a virus this week.

"Denver Hume has got a virus so he's a doubt."

Hume has been impressive for the Black Cats since Parkinson took charge of the team, and was on hand to provide the assist for Luke O'Nien's match winner in their last league game against Southend United.

It certainly won't be an easy game for Sunderland by any stretch of the imagination, although the Black Cats have a much better record when playing in front of a home crowd so far this season.

The Verdict: 

It's a mixed update here from Parkinson.

He'll be hoping that Hume can be fit in time to make the matchday squad this weekend, as he's really impressed me since coming into the team.

The update from other members of the squad is promising, but Parkinson will surely be tempted to make additions to his squad in the January transfer window to strengthen his side's chances of winning a timely promotion back into the Championship this season.