Lee Cattermole has been ruled out for four months following hip surgery in the US.
Suffering from torn cartilage, the midfielder’s lengthy absence was revealed by manager David Moyes at his pre-Hull City press conference on Friday.
The Black Cats boss also provided an update on Fabio Borini and Jack Rodwell – both will miss Saturday’s game – with Victor Anichebe fit to face the Tigers following a rib injury.
“We’ve got people making good progress – Vito’s had some game time and so has Seb Larsson – but Fabio Borini isn’t back yet and neither is Lee Cattermole.
“Lee will be out for four months after undergoing hip surgery.”
He continued: “Jack Rodwell also has an injury but other than that I think most of the squad will be available, Jan Kirchhoff is training but won't be available.
“Victor had a rib injury but it wasn’t a break – the muscle between his two ribs had been damaged – and that was where the problem came from.
“I’m hoping we’re through the worst of the injuries and the players are in good spirits after getting that win at Bournemouth.”