Sunderland have been dealt a blow by the news that Paddy McNair is expected to miss the rest of the season with a ruptured cruciate ligament.
McNair has made 14 appearances since signing from Manchester United in the summer but it now appears that he will be sidelined until the next campaign after picking up the injury against Hull City last weekend.
According to Sky Sports News, the Northern Irishman sustained the issue just before half time but he continued playing until the 88th minute when he picked up another knock.
After being assessed by Sunderland's medical team, it became evident that the 21-year-old would require surgery that will see him ruled out for at least six months.
McNair had started in both of the club's recent wins which has seen them move closer to climbing out of the Premier League relegation zone.
