Sunderland have been dealt another injury blow ahead of their Championship clash with Sheffield United, with Carl Winchester ruled out with a back issue.

The Lowdown: Ballard out

The Black Cats have lost Dan Ballard for the foreseeable future, with the defender suffering a fractured foot in the 2-2 draw at home to QPR on Saturday afternoon.

Next up for Alex Neil's side is Wednesday evening's trip to Sheffield United, as Sunderland look to get back to winning ways with a tough away outing.

Their preparations have been dealt a blow ahead of the Bramall Lane clash, however, with a second injury concern emerging.

The Latest: Winchester to be examined on Wednesday

Taking to Twitter, journalist James Hunter confirmed that Winchester is out with a back problem and is set to see a specialist on Wednesday regarding the issue:

"Carl Winchester sidelined with a back problem. Due to see a specialist tomorrow."

The Verdict: Injury problems mounting

This is far from ideal ahead of an important game, with Winchester admittedly not starting a league game this season but potentially in with a chance of playing at Bramall Lane after the problem for Ballard.

He enjoyed an 89.9% pass completion rate in his only appearance so far in 2022/23, against Sheffield Wednesday in the EFL Cup, and he has been described as a 'cult hero' by journalist James Copley.

The hope is that Winchester's setback is not too serious, with long-term absences for both him and Ballard giving Neil a headache ahead of a busy run of fixtures.