Simon Grayson has admitted Lee Cattermole missed Saturday’s match against Sheffield United with a groin injury.
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The 29-year-old was a surprise omission from the starting XI, having started every match for the Black Cats in the Sky Bet Championship prior to last weekend.
But Cattermole wasn't the only player to miss out as Aiden McGeady didn't recover in time from an injury picked up on international duty and fatigue got the better of Bryan Oviedo while away with Costa Rica.
Speaking to safc.com, the Black Cats boss admitted how much of a loss the trio were on Saturday as attentions swiftly turn to Nottingham Forest tomorrow night.
“Catts felt his groin on Thursday so we had to make sure by missing one game he won’t miss a load of games,” he said.
“Bryan Oviedo came back from international duty fatigued after travelling a long distance.
“And Aiden McGeady came back from the Republic of Ireland squad injured. You have got three of four good players there who would be in your team.
“But you have to deal with those situations,” he continued.
“We will analyse everybody and whoever goes out onto the pitch on Tuesday have to show belief, real enthusiasm and a desire to do whatever to build small steps over the next few weeks.”
