Elliott Not In Contention

The Republic of Ireland international has been sidelined since November with a back injury and although he has resumed training the Sunderland boss has dismissed reports that he could make a return to the squad for the game against Mark Hughes' side at Ewood Park on Wednesday night.

“He’s not been training long enough, it would be ridiculous to risk him after being out for so long. He’s just not had enough training,” McCarthy has said.