Sunderland are likely to be without Jan Kirchhoff, Steven Pienaar, Paddy McNair and Duncan Watmore for the remainder of the season, David Moyes has confirmed.
McNair and Watmore were always looking at returning ahead of the new campaign, but Kirchhoff, who has endured a torrid season with injuries, and Steven Pienaar also look set to miss out.
The Black Cats were handed a boost on Tuesday, though, as Lee Cattermole and Victor Anichebe returned to action, and the duo are in contention to feature this weekend.
“There’s no more good news as far as players coming back from any injuries, and I think the other ones are now players who are probably out for the season,” explained the Sunderland boss.
“The big thing is to get Victor up and running to a level of fitness where he can help us and make a difference.”
He continued: “We’re now in a position where we’re having to take as many risks as we can – do I think he can play 90 minutes, no – but I think he can play part of the game.
“Lee hasn’t played any football all season and we’ll need to assess that, but he’s trained today and he looks fine.
“His leadership has been missing for long parts of the season so having him back, albeit a bit late, is a good thing.”
Moyes also confirmed that John O’Shea will miss Sunday’s game against his former club.
“John is in Ireland, I spoke with him today on the phone and he’ll stay at home over the weekend with his family.
"I’ve passed on our thoughts to him and his family at this difficult time.”