Sunderland boosted with pair’s return to action

Posted on 16th January 2007

Sunderland have been boosted by the news that two experienced defenders successfully came through a reserve fixture yesterday. Kenny Cunningham and Stephen Wright both played in the 3-2 win over Gretna at the Academy of Light. The pair both played longer than was expected.

The news will come as a welcome boost to manager Roy Keane, who had three players out of position in the back four which kept Ipswich Town at bay in the Championship at the weekend. Midfielder Dean Whitehead played the game at right back which allowed Nyron Nosworthy to cover in the centre. Ross Wallace, also a midfielder, was needed on the left-hand side of the defence.

Cunningham and Wright have been sidelined along with Steve Caldwell and Stanislav Varga. Keane has been unable to sign a new right back and has suffered problems with Lewin Nyatanga heading back to Derby County after his loan spell with Sunderand ended. Central defender Cunningham has played just once since September while injury-prone right-back Wright has been out injured since before Keane’s August arrival as manager.

Earlier Sunderland news

Evans would welcome extended stay
Result makes a change admits Keane
Stokes believes Sunderland can get promotion
Decision to join Sunderland was quick for Edwards
Sunderland trying to capture Warnock
Stead future in doubt as signings made
Hysen – I could have had a hat–trick
Patience the key says Keane
We can't be come back kings every week
Yorke gets glowing reference from manager
Ward urges Cats to keep focus
Connolly credits away fans with point
Varga sets his sights high
Keane only has a small one
Keane blames agents for rumour mill