The Northern Echo journalist Matty Jones has shared some Sunderland injury news on Dennis Cirkin before Saturday's game at home to Preston North End.

The Lowdown: Hamstring injury

Cirkin picked up a hamstring injury during the Stadium of Light outfit's 1-0 loss away at Middlesbrough in the Championship earlier this month.

He has since missed their last two games in the division, but will be looking to get back to full fitness now that the international break has finished.

The Latest: Back in training

Taking to Twitter, Jones shared 'some positive news for Sunderland' on Cirkin in that he is now back in training ahead of the Wearside club's match against Preston on Saturday afternoon:

"Some positive news for Sunderland with Dennis Cirkin making a return to training ahead of this weekend's game against Preston."

The Verdict: Big boost

Having Cirkin return to training is a big boost for Tony Mowbray and his side, and he will be hoping that the defender can now be fit enough to play a part against Preston at the weekend.

Before his injury against Middlesbrough, he had played in every minute of the Championship campaign, establishing himself as a key player in the team.

In the division, Cirkin ranks highly among his teammates in terms of aerial duels won and average tackles, interceptions, clearances and blocks per game (WhoScored), further highlighting his worth.

The Black Cats will now be aiming to try and keep him fit until the start of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, and Cirkin himself will be looking to get back to full match sharpness.