Sunderland hit by Tyne-Wear derby injury blow with key man to miss Newcastle United clash

Sunderland have suffered an injury blow ahead of their derby clash against Newcastle United, with Senegal international Habib Diarra expected to be sidelined for around six weeks. Manager Regis Le Bris confirmed the diagnosis during his pre-match press conference ahead of their Europa League match against Dinamo Zagreb. Diarra is now set to miss the derby against Newcastle at St James' Park on Sunday, December 6.

Le Bris noted that while the club does not have many injuries, the absences of Diarra, Romaine Mundle, and Dan Ballard are serious. Sunderland currently sit bottom of the Premier League table while navigating a demanding schedule across multiple competitions, though Le Bris described the challenges as growing pains for his evolving squad.