Sunderland’s Duncan Watmore is still several weeks away from full fitness, as revealed by Jack Ross in this afternoon’s press conference.
Hapless Watmore is currently on his third spell out of the side, with what could be termed a long-term injury. He’s done both ACL’s in the last couple of years, but battled back bravely last season to regain a starting place for the Black Cats.
Sadly, his joy was shortlived and after scoring a leveller against Wycombe at Adams Park last season, the winger was the victim of a crude tackle by Marcus Bean that put him out of action once again. He’s missed the start of the season and Ross has revealed he’s not in line for a return soon.
“It will be around another two to three weeks for Duncan”, said the former St Mirren boss.
“It’s a muscular injury. It’s frustrating for me and for him. We need to get him right to play and the support him through the challenges he faces.”
The former Altrincham winger rose to prominence in 2015 when his performances for the Black Cats resulted in an England Under 21 call up. He’s since struggled to repeat the form which saw him represent his country, not least due to his appalling injury record.
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The time will come when these injuries affect the player’s mental state. He’s spent more time on the treatment table than most in the last three years and that must affect him.
He’ll not have quite the same turn of pace he once did and even with the advance of sport’s science, he’s going to find it tough to put himself into a tackle when he’s back.
Fans must be beginning to wonder if there is actually a way back for the winger.
