Sunderland man missing for Chelsea clash

Defender Billy Jones is Sunderland’s only injury concern ahead of Chelsea’s visit on Saturday.

The full-back, who has largely been an unused substitute in recent weeks, picked up a hip injury during the week that could rule him out.

But Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce said it would give someone else a chance to force their way into the matchday squad, ahead of a run of three games in eight days that will decide their Premier League future.

He said: “It’s an opportunity to use the squad if I feel its necessary. From my point of view, it’s always a good thing to have the players all ready, willing and able to be selected.

“It’s a massive week. We’re all aware of the huge responsibility that we have to try and achieve more points than Newcastle and Norwich.

“There’s three games to do it in and no real margin for error. Winning is everything for the three of us.”