Sunderland midfielder Jan Kirchhoff’s recovery from a hamstring injury is going well and he’s set to be back in action soon, the Sunderland Echo can report, but he won’t be in contention until after the upcoming international break.
The German powerhouse was crucial for Sunderland last season and became a mainstay in their first-team for his excellent shielding performances at defensive midfield.
My feeling is he won’t be ready at the earliest until after the international break.
However, Kirchhoff’s hamstring problem has hindered his preparations for the new season and, as a result of this, has been sideline for the whole of pre-season and the opening two Premier League fixtures in recent weeks.
Although he is back in light training and is already taking the first few steps to recovery, he is certainly out for Sunderland’s trip to Southampton on Saturday afternoon, before he uses the international break to boost up his fitness further.
I don’t think he will make tonight or Saturday. Jan Kirchhoff is doing a bit of running.
Kirchhoff’s return will be more than welcome to the Sunderland faithful given their lack of midfield options due to an injury crisis.
