Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray has confirmed that Edouard Michut remains unavailable for selection while remaining hopeful that he could return for the festive period. 

Michut has been absent since the 1-1 draw with Luton Town at the end of October, which was coincidentally his best performance in a Sunderland shirt since his summer arrival.

Mowbray had suggested he would start him against Huddersfield Town days later but injury put paid to that. The PSG loanee has continued to feel the effects of that injury throughout the World Cup break and though the player himself is upbeat there is as of yet no guarantee as to when he will be back.

It's been a frustrating period for everyone, with Mowbray explaining to the Sunderland Echo the need for patience with the young midfielder: "It's just dragging on a bit longer than we thought it would.

"It's a bit of everything really and to be honest it's been a bit of a mystery for everyone, it's a problem in his leg but we're not sure if it's come from his groin or his thigh, or around the knee."

Michut would offer the Sunderland midfield something completely different with the unique abilities he has at his disposal and Mowbray is desperate to use them.

He said: "He is very talented and a different type of midfielder, he can carry the ball and has a wonderful range of passing. It's an area where I feel we could do with another option, he can pick a pass and drive with the ball.

"He can try to dictate the game from a slightly deeper position on the pitch."

The 19-year-old has made just four appearances for the Black Cats so far, all from the substitutes bench with the club being unable to keep him injury free.

However, as Mowbray mentioned, that should hopefully change over the coming week.

 

The Verdict

It's no doubt been a frustrating period for everyone involved.

Sunderland would have hoped to utilise Michut more often this season, with Mowbray wanting more options in the middle of the park and of course Michut wanting more game time.

It's not quite transpired but at least Michut has had time to adapt to life on Wearside, as well as understand what Mowbray wants from him once he returns to full fitness.

He's a talented player and everyone associated with the club will be desperate to see him showcase that.