Sunderland are managing several injury concerns ahead of this weekend’s home clash with Manchester United in the Premier League

Dan Ballard’s red card appeal has been unsuccessful

Sunderland will aim to return to winning ways against Manchester United after going three games without a victory. Regis Le Bris’ side drew 1-1 at Wolves last time out and return to home soil for the first time since last month’s 5-0 humiliation against Nottingham Forest.

With just three games left this season, the Black Cats are still managing several concerns over available players.

Dan Ballard is a confirmed absentee after the FA rejected Sunderland’s appeal to reduce his three‑game suspension for violent conduct. The centre‑back was dismissed for a hair‑pull during last Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Wolves and will miss the rest of the Premier League campaign.

“Yes, we are disappointed,” Le Bris said. “Because the situation, I think, was a bit unclear.

“The Premier League is built around physicality, duels, intensity and I do think that Ballard tried to grab the shirt. And in the duel, unfortunately, long hair got caught and it wasn’t intentional and the law is the law, so I understand the referee at one point, but at the same time, I think for the rule it’s a bit unclear.”

Romaine Mundle will also miss out after undergoing surgery on the hamstring injury he suffered against Fulham in March. Goalkeeper Simon Moore remains sidelined with a broken hand sustained in training.

United, meanwhile, will be aiming to stretch their unbeaten run to four matches after the 3-2 win over Liverpool that sealed Champions League football for next season. Interim head coach Michael Carrick is also managing a couple of injury concerns.

Matthijs de Ligt is not expected to play again this campaign, having been out of action since November 30. The defender was seen working on the grass last week and might make a comeback before the season concludes.

Benjamin Sesko is another concern for the club following his half-time withdrawal against Liverpool. The striker seemed to sustain a problem when he was shoved off the pitch by Ibrahima Konate while attempting to protect the ball.

“He got a bang on his shin when he fell down the side of the pitch,” Carrick said after the game. “It’s something that he’s been carrying for a little bit as well, so we’ve had to manage him a bit but he’s certainly had a bang right on the same spot.”

No further update has been given regarding Sesko’s recovery, meaning the Slovenian may need a late fitness check to establish whether he is available to feature. Carrick suggested he will attempt to give playing time to those who have not been regular starters.

“I think every player in the squad has been absolutely fantastic, I have to say,” the Reds’ interim head coach said. “Yeah, some have played a lot more than others and I understand, from a professional and a playing point of view, it can be difficult, but the togetherness and the support that the players have shown, certainly to each other, is great to see.

“So, yeah, coming into these games, it’s something we’re aware of. I think it’s something that we’re really keen on playing well and still trying to get good results as well though. But yeah, it’s definitely something to be aware of.”

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