Turner and Bramble missing for months

SUNDERLAND are facing a major defensive headache after learning Michael Turner is likely to be sidelined for months with a knee problem. The Black Cats are already without Titus Bramble, who has undergone surgery today on a knee ligament injury, and John Mensah, who is weeks away from recovering from a shoulder complaint. That means Sunderland's only fit and available centre-backs are Anton Ferdinand and Paulo Da Silva, although manager Steve Bruce does have the option of switching Nedum Onuoha to that role. Turner sustained the knee injury during the 2-2 draw with Everton on Monday, when he collided with a post as he prevented Tim Cahill from scoring his second of the night. Sunderland, meanwhile, have also given Sheffield United the go-ahead to extend Andy Reid's loan spell at Bramall Lane until early in the New Year.

Source: Northern_Echo