Darron Gibson believes returning duo Lee Cattermole and Victor Anichebe can provide Sunderland with a major boost.
David Moyes’ side head to Vicarage Road on Saturday, looking to build on the point and clean sheet secured against Burnley last time out on Wearside.
While it wasn’t the three points the Black Cats had hoped for ahead of kick-off at the Stadium of Light, Moyes provided an injury boost in his post-match interview, revealing long-term absentees Cattermole and Anichebe are nearing a return.
Sidelined since the end of September, Cattermole has made just three appearances for the Lads this season with his last minutes clocked in a home defeat to Crystal Palace in September 2016.
Anichebe, meanwhile, returned to the Black Cats’ side in January at West Bromwich Albion after a one month spell in the treatment room but was struck down with another long-term layoff after coming off the bench.
Speaking to safc.com, Gibson hailed the timely boost the duo provide as they close in on a return to action.
“Getting Catts back will be important,” he said.
“He has a lot of experience, he is a good leader on the pitch while Victor’s ability to hold the ball up will be a big positive for us.
“Hopefully we can get them back after the international break and things will start going our way.
“He can be unplayable when he is on form so hopefully he comes back from America and is flying.”
