O'Shea and Giaccherini return as trio miss out. John O'Shea has returned to fitness ahead of Saturday's clash with Leicester City (KO 3pm). Emanuele Giaccherini is also a surprise inclusion in Dick Advocaat's squad, with the Italian international initially thought to be out for the remainder of the campaign. Two players who are expected to miss the Black Cats' final three matches are Jordi Gomez and Wes Brown, with the head coach revealing that Liam Bridcutt is likely to start in place of the Spaniard. “We have some problems,” said Advocaat when asked about the latest team news. “Jordi Gomez, Jack Rodwell and Wes Brown will not be involved. “John O’Shea is back and so is our Italian friend, Emanuele Giaccherini.” He added: “O’Shea trained on Thursday and Friday but Wes gave so much last weekend that he needs a little break. “He has some problems with his knee and we don’t know exactly how long it will take, but Jordi will be out for at least six weeks so both are probably out for the season.”
Was gutted when I seen oshea playing but am delighted Giacchi boy is back. He may get a twenty minute run out and set up young Duncan to crash in the winner.
Shame about Wes and Jordi, we never seem to get a settled team for one reason or another, but I am sure however plays will know the importance of this game, it is just massive, haaaaway the laaaads.
We desperately needed Giaccherini back if Alvarez is out for the season. We need that bit of craft, and to have both of those lads out was hurting us.
Alvarez has contributed so little this season I don't even see him as a miss. Hes barely kicked a ball for us. I was buzzing when he signed aswell. Shame.
If Jordi is out, Giacch may need to start!! OShea and Coates against pace don't fill me with confidence. This seems like very bad news to me.
Best player we have, sadly we've rarely seen it. Quite excited about the prospect of his through balls and Defoe, have to say.
Might see the very best of them both if Giacc is in any kind of shape. Defoe loves playing off his mans shoulder and you need an intricate passer like Giacc for that to work, could be wonderful news that he's back for such a vital game.
