Sunderland 'in big trouble' after Brian Brobbey and Dan Ballard injuries assessed

Sunderland could be in trouble after two major injuries exposed their lack of Premier League quality strength in depth.

That was shown during the 2-0 defeat against ten-man Brighton at the Stadium of Light on Saturday as the Black Cats were unable to cope without their star names.

Brian Brobbey and Dan Ballard both picked up injuries on international duty, but have differing timelines for their returns, with Sunderland hoping for swift recoveries.

However, former Sunderland chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that they could be "in big trouble" if they suffer any more injuries or the duo are sidelined for longer.

Brobbey is expected to return to action for the clash against Bournemouth, although he will miss their Europa League game against Torreense on Thursday night.

Ballard, meanwhile, is the major concern for Regis Le Bris' side as he is set to miss at least a month of action which could see him sidelined for at least nine games.

Why are Sunderland's injuries becoming a concern?

Brown told Football Insider on 28 September that Sunderland have been left reeling after a "nightmare" international break and the injuries to both Ballard and Brobbey.

Despite the relief of Brobbey's return timeline being very brief, it has exposed that major injuries could quickly derail their season ahead of what is set to be a busy fixture list.

With Sunderland competing in the Europa League as well as the Premier League and domestic cup competitions, major absences could lead to issues with their form.

"Sunderland's injury issues are going to be a really big problem for them," Brown warned Football Insider.

"They've done excellently in the last few weeks and over the last season, but for any team in the league, losing two of your most important players is going to be a blow.

"They're hopeful they can both recover in good time and won't miss too long, but in the meantime, they're too major absences who will be sorely missed by Sunderland.

"Losing your star centre-back, who has been such a positive influence in the side, for any siginficiant period of time is bound to casue problems.

"Then you look up front and they're also without their star striker who scores such important goals, and was coming off the back of a hattrick against Man City.

"Like I say, Sunderland will be hoping to have them back quickly, but it also suggests to me that they could be in big trouble if they start picking up injuries as the season goes on.

"I'm not sure they're particularly well-placed to deal with major absences, a lot of clubs wouldn't be, so if they're going to be without key players at any stage it will be a concern."

How long is Dan Ballard likely to miss through injury?

While Brobbey's injury was a concern for Sunderland, Le Bris has since provided a positive update on his return timeline, easing any major concerns about his absence.

Ballard, however, is the major concern for the Black Cats as he looks set to spend a considerably longer period on the sidelines during a crucial stage of their season.

Football Insider revealed on 28 September that Ballard could be set to miss up to two months, and is unlikely to return to action before the November international break.

Sunderland will face eight different opponents between now and then; three Europa League clashes, four Premier League fixtures and the League Cup fourth round.

Ballard's absence will be felt throughout that tough run of fixtures, and has only added to the concerns after what has been a difficult start to their campaign.