After missing two games, Sunderland star could play against Sheffield Wednesday.
Sunderland could welcome midfielder Pierre Ekwah back to the squad against Sheffield Wednesday this weekend, as per the Sunderland Echo.
Sunderland signed French talent Ekwah from West Ham back in January. His first half-season with the Black Cats had bright moments displaying his high ceiling but in the early stages of this campaign, the 21-year-old has really made an impression.
Before being forced to the sidelines with an injury, he had started each of the six Championship games. Ekwah had his greatest performance in the 5-0 hammering of Sunderland, scoring twice in a dominant performance for Tony Mowbray’s team.
The next week’s victory over QPR saw him removed from the action in the early going, and he hasn’t played since. However, a positive development in his health has now surfaced ahead of the forthcoming match against Sheffield Wednesday.
According to The Sunderland Echo, Ekwah might be able to play against the Owls later this week. If not, he’ll probably return to the action in Watford’s midweek matchup the following week.
In his absence
With Ekwah on the sidelines, Alex Pritchard has come into the team while Dan Neil has operated as a deep-lying midfielder by himself, rather than partnering someone like he has with Ekwah prior to the injury.
Having the former Chelsea and West Ham man back could force Pritchard out of the XI, although it may well be between him, Bradley Dack and young star Jobe Bellingham in the fight for a start. The physicality Ekwah offers may well make him the preferred choice though, bringing a bit more balance to the midfield.
Ekwah has made a strong start to the season so it’ll be hoped that this spell out hasn’t stunted his momentum too much. The Frenchman has the potential to become a really key cog in Tony Mowbray’s side so he’ll be aiming to maintain his place in the team.
