The Northern Echo journalist Scott Wilson has now shared a fresh injury setback for Ellis Simms ahead of Sunderland's upcoming clash at home to Blackpool.

The Lowdown: Backed for Preston return...

It was reported before the international break that the 21-year-old could make his return from injury in the 0-0 draw at home to Preston North End in the Championship at the weekend, but he was unable to feature.

The striker on loan from Everton has been struggling with an injury to his big toe, and he now seems to have suffered a further setback ahead of the game against Blackpool on Tuesday night.

The Latest: Another few weeks out

Speaking to the media in his pre-match press conference ahead of the Seasiders' visit to Wearside, Tony Mowbray has confirmed (via The Northern Echo) that Simms could now be facing a further three weeks or more out on the sidelines, in what is another setback for the youngster.

Taking to Twitter on Monday morning in reaction to the manager's update, Wilson labelled it as 'not such positive news' for Sunderland.

The Verdict: Big blow

Of course, it is a big blow for Mowbray and his team to potentially lose Simms for another few games on top of the Blackpool match tomorrow night.

The 21-year-old has started his Black Cats career well, with three goals in his first eight appearances in the Championship (Transfermarkt); and with fellow striker Ross Stewart continuing to be injury as well, it leaves the Wearsiders light in terms of centre-forward options.

Nonetheless, Simms needs to be given time to recover fully, as Mowbray will be wary of rushing him back too early.