Mundle ready to return for Black Cats

Romaine Mundle has been out with a hamstring injury since November

Regis Le Bris is ready to pitch winger Romaine Mundle back into the first-team mix against Hull City on Saturday after more than three months on the sidelines.

Mundle, 21, has been absent with a hamstring injury since early November but was an unused substitute on Monday when the Black Cats were beaten in stoppage time by Championship pacesetters Leeds.

But following another week on the training ground, Mundle is firmly in contention for a return against the Tigers on Saturday (12:30 GMT).

"Romaine should be OK now," Le Bris said. "We felt against Leeds it was just a little bit too soon. It's not just about the minutes, it's about a strong opponent in and out of possession.

"But I think he is ready now. We didn't rush the process at Leeds, especially because of the intensity of that game. We felt it was just a little bit too early for him but for now, I think it will be OK."

Le Bris says Mundle's return has contributed to a situation where Sunderland's bench strength is better than at any time this season.

"We will have more options now, I think our bench is the strongest it has been. It is good to refresh the team because the other players have played a lot of minutes, they need help and energy."