Sunderland manager Jack Ross has confirmed that influential winger Duncan Watmore is likely to miss the rest of the season because of an ankle injury.
Watmore suffered ligament damage during a challenge by Marcus Bean in Saturday’s fiery encounter with Wycombe Wanderers.
Bean was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for the tackle made late into stoppage time. The incident came after Watmore had scored a ninety-fourth-minute equaliser for the Black Cats.
Watmore only returned to action in December 2018 after thirteen months out with a cruciate knee ligament injury. That long lay-off came just six games into his comeback from a previous, injury-induced ten-month spell on the sidelines.
Watmore has made sixteen appearances this season and scored two goals. He was starting to find the form that saw him make thirteen appearances for the England U-21’s, including being part of the team that won the Toulon Tournament in 2016, before his latest setback.
Speaking on the club’s website in the aftermath of Tuesday nights 0-0 draw at Barnsley, Ross gave a full update on the situation. He said ‘The likelihood is that Duncan will miss the rest of the season.’
‘It is incredibly disappointing for him because of what he has been through. The positive thing is that it’s nothing to do with his knee. His knee is in great shape and has been for a while now, so that’s a confidence boost for him.’
‘It’s a sore one for him, and I mean that in both senses, both physically and mentally. He’s been making a contribution for us, and I’ve been delighted with him.’
‘I said at the time I was disappointed with the tackle, and I think you can see the outcome of that because he is looking at eight to 12 weeks out.’
‘It’s frustrating for us but more so for him. Hopefully, he will be ready before the end of the season but if not then definitely for pre-season.’
Marcus Bean has since issued an apology on Twitter for the tackle.
I'd like to apologies to Watmore. Praying it isn't serious. I meant no malice. I know he has just returned from a long layoff and i would like to wish him a speedy recovery! @SunderlandAFC
— Marcus Bean (@MarcusBean) March 9, 2019
Our View
Injuries are part and parcel of the game, but Watmore has had more than his fair share.
He will need tremendous mental strength to come back once again from a long lay off.
Bean will soon be back playing after serving his suspension for a tackle that was crude and very late.
The consequences of the challenge for each player does not seem fair and will only add insult to injury for the Watmore, Ross and the disappointed Sunderland supporters.
I can only hope Watmore once again comes back fitter, stronger and wiser and wish him all the best for his rehabilitation.
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