SUNDERLAND have received a huge boost ahead of this weekend's game against Middlesbrough, with Dan Ballard expected to be involved after his Plymouth injury scare.

Ballard was pictured leaving Home Park on crutches and with his foot in a protective boot after the defeat to Argyle but head coach Regis Le Bris said that was a precaution and the centre-half has recovered well.

Ballard is now expected to start against Boro this weekend. And although Alan Browne will miss this weekend's game, there was also positive news on the midfielder, who is only expected to be out of action for a week.

RECOMMENDED READING:

The Republic of Ireland international attended a question and answer session at the Stadium of Light on Tuesday evening alongside Sunderland’s other summer signings with his leg in a protective brace.

He'll be missing this weekend but is expected to be back in contention for the trip to Watford a week on Saturday.

Le Bris said: "Ballard should be OK for this weekend and for Browney we need at least one week more to be available."

Deadline day signing Salis Abdul Samed is expected to join in training in the next week as the midfielder works his way back from injury.