Granit Xhaka and Brian Brobbey latest as Sunderland draw up plans for break

Sunderland are assessing injuries to Granit Xhaka and Brian Brobbey after both players withdrew from international duty following Sunday's victory against Chelsea. Xhaka suffered a calf injury after experiencing discomfort during the pre-match warm-up and was substituted inside the opening five minutes. Brobbey was replaced in the 67th minute due to muscular fatigue, prompting withdrawals from Switzerland and the Netherlands squads respectively.

Xhaka underwent an MRI scan to determine the full extent of the muscular damage, with Sunderland fearing he could face an extended absence. Brobbey is also undergoing tests, though the club hopes rest will allow him to recover ahead of their upcoming Premier League fixture against Aston Villa on Saturday, November 21.