Steven Fletcher could make his Sunderland debut in the Barclays Premier League game against Reading after his switch from Wolves was completed.
The 25-year-old striker joined from Wolves for an undisclosed fee and could start in the Black Cats` first home game of the season at the Stadium of Light.
Wes Brown (knee ligaments), Phil Bardsley (ankle) and David Vaughan (ankle) are still recovering from injuries and will miss out.
Boss Martin O'Neill expects a tough challenge against newly-promoted Reading in Sunderland's first home game of the season.
While the Black Cats took a well-earned point from Arsenal in a hard-fought draw at the Emirates in their opening game, the Royals lost out 4-2 to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday following their opening draw against Stoke.
"It's a very important game for us," O'Neill said.
"This is the most difficult time of the season [to play promoted sides].
"That exuberance, Reading have in abundance and they can also play a bit too. They will consider themselves unlucky not to get something against the current European champions away from home.
"I know from experience these games are not easy. We're certainly not good enough to treat anyone lightly which I've said in the past but I'm not decrying us in any shape or form, it just means that we've got to be at it."
Reading boss Brian McDermott has no fresh injury doubts.
Jem Karacan is still working his way back from a broken ankle while Jimmy Kebe (hamstring) will not be available until after the international break.
McDermott does welcome striker Jason Roberts back from suspension but a calf problem, coupled with a lack of match fitness, means the 34-year-old is unlikely to be involved from the start.
McDermott confirmed fellow forward Simon Church, who has been at Reading since the age of 14, looks set to leave on a temporary basis before the transfer window closes next week.
"I've spoken to Churchie and he has four or five options club-wise so we will have to watch that one," he said.
"There is a possibility he will go out and play some games which I have spoken to him about - it will be a loan."
Source: PA
Source: PA