Sunderland Football Club News

• Nickname:Black Cats
• Founded:1879
• Manager:Martin O'Neill

• Ground:Stadium of light
• Capacity:48,353

Whitehead close to return

13 Nov 2007 - 12:33:35

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Sunderland captain Dean Whitehead could make his long-awaited comeback from injury in this week's friendly against Falkirk.

Black Cats boss Roy Keane has been without the 25-year-old since the first week of the season after Whitehead suffered knee ligament damage in training.

Keane told the club's official website: "The Falkirk game could be ideal for Dean in terms of him getting his match boots back on. He could be involved.

"He's trained well for the last few weeks and all being well he's ready to step it up with a proper game. He had a scan (last Friday), and seeing him on the field again would be a massive plus."

Thursday's game is a testimonial for Bairns star Andy Lawrie and Keane could also hand Dwight Yorke, Carlos Edwards and Andy Cole the chance to prove their fitness in the game.

The former Republic of Ireland international added: "It's a testimonial and we want to do it right in terms of sending up a good side that people will want to see.

"Stan Varga is back in training, has been for a week or so, and he could be available. There could be other first-teamers involved - we'll decide nearer the time. You do have to keep players ticking over.

"There are a few players in the first-team squad who haven't had that many minutes on the pitch, it's vital that we keep their sharpness up as well."